Newly elected President of South Korea, Lee Jae-myung, faces a challenging agenda as he steps into office following the tenure of his predecessor, Yoon Suk-yeol.

The transition occurs amidst a backdrop of evolving geopolitical tensions and pressing domestic issues.

Lee’s inauguration follows Yoon's presidency, which was marked by a deteriorating relationship with North Korea and a growing economic divide within South Korea.

Amid a modest ceremony, Lee expressed his commitment to healing divisions within the South Korean society and promoting growth in the nation's economy, the fourth largest in Asia.

In addition to addressing domestic concerns, Lee must also manage relations with the new U.S. administration led by Donald Trump.

Following Lee’s significant electoral victory over a conservative challenger, Trump's initial comments suggested skepticism regarding the legitimacy of Lee's win, implying that Chinese influence may have played a role.

Significant attention in Lee's inaugural address was placed on trade, particularly in response to Trump's protectionist measures, which he described as a threat to South Korea’s survival.

The United States had previously imposed tariffs of 50% on steel and aluminum imports, a matter Lee has not indicated he plans to address immediately despite South Korea being a major exporter of steel to the U.S., accounting for 13% of American steel imports in the past year.

Lee’s administration will be tasked with forging a new economic relationship with China, South Korea's largest trading partner, while simultaneously avoiding tensions with the U.S. Analysts suggest that Lee has limited time to negotiate these critical discussions with the Trump administration.

South Korea's economic outlook remains uncertain, with expectations for growth below 1% as the nation grapples with these issues.

Political stability must also be restored after years of tumult under Yoon’s governance, according to political science experts in Seoul.

The issue of North Korea, armed with nuclear capabilities, has historically presented the most significant foreign policy challenge for South Korean presidents.

Lee aims to resume dialogue with North Korea, pivoting from the deteriorated relations experienced during Yoon's presidency.

He stated that “regardless of the cost of peace, it is still better than war.” Lee has vowed to counter North Korean provocations while maintaining open lines of communication.

Despite Trump’s reiterated demand for increased South Korean contributions for the hosting of U.S. troops in the country, the current security alliance appears stable.

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has affirmed strong bilateral ties founded on mutual defense, shared values, and deep economic relations.

The extent of Lee’s diplomatic maneuvering with both China and the United States remains to be seen, though he has expressed a commitment to enhancing trilateral cooperation with Washington and Tokyo.

After a simple inauguration at the National Assembly, Lee completed the customary call to his chief of staff and paid tribute to those who lost their lives during the Korean War at the national cemetery in Seoul.

World leaders are expected to reach out to congratulate him, with Trump anticipated to be among the first.

Political analysts underscore the necessity of effective leadership during these tumultuous times, emphasizing that a constructive dialogue with Trump may significantly improve South Korea’s diplomatic standing.

Supporters of Lee describe him as a pragmatic leader and effective negotiator.