South Korean opposition leader Lee Jae-young was sworn in as South Korea's next president on Sunday, following a dramatic snap election six months after the country's previous leader declared a state of emergency and plunged the nation into chaos.
Official results showed Lee winning by nearly three million votes over his main rival, Kim Moon-soo of the ruling conservative People's Power Party. Kim conceded defeat, congratulating Lee on his victory in a speech and saying he " humbly accepts the people's decision ."
Addressing crowds of supporters in Seoul, Lee promised to " work to restore the economy " from day one and ensure there will never be a military coup.
Lee was inaugurated on Wednesday morning. The ceremony was short, with a few short musical performances and a speech by the new leader - according to the Ministry of Home Affairs and Security, Lee had wanted to give a simple speech and "focus on state affairs immediately after the swearing-in" . Voter turnout reached nearly 80%, according to the country's National Election Commission, marking the highest turnout since the 1997 election.
These elections were closely watched and could offer South Koreans some political stability after half a year of uncertainty and unrest, while the US ally and economic powerhouse was dealing with the aftermath of the martial law crisis.
This also comes at a time when South Korea's export-oriented economy faces global events such as U.S. President Donald Trump's tariffs and a possible recession, all without a permanent leader at the helm. (A2 Televizion)
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