President Lee Jae-myung took office on Wednesday immediately after a decisive snap election victory on Tuesday, replacing Acting President Lee Ju-ho. While the new president pledged unity, reform and pragmatism, experts told Korea Pro that it remains to be seen if he can remain committed to his lofty rhetoric.

Vowing to be a president for all citizens in his inaugural address, Lee outlined a sweeping agenda: restoring democracy, revitalizing equitable growth, reducing regional disparities, boosting cultural exports and securing peace and public safety by pursuing a pragmatic foreign policy.