Kang Won-taek
The author is a professor of political science and international relations at Seoul National University.
As political parties focus on Wednesday's local elections, another milestone arrives the following day. Thursday marks the first anniversary of the Lee Jae Myung administration.
Much has changed during President Lee’s first year in office. Most notably, his administration restored a measure of stability after six months of severe turmoil, division and uncertainty triggered by former President Yoon Suk Yeol’s declaration of martial law. Diplomatically, the government managed relations with the United States despite U.S. President Donald Trump's unpredictable tariff and security policies and achieved progress in relations with Japan. Economically, exports increased despite difficult conditions, and the stock market enjoyed a strong run. These developments helped sustain Lee’s approval ratings in the 60 percent range.
President Lee Jae Myung takes the oath of office during a simplified inauguration ceremony held in the Rotunda Hall of the National Assembly in Yeouido, southern Seoul, on June 4, 2025. [LIM HYUN-DONG]
