Lee Jae-myung has officially commenced his five-year presidential tenure on June 4, following confirmation of his election victory by South Korea’s National Election Commission, Yonhap reported. He stepped into the role at 6:21 am local time, immediately succeeding acting President Lee Ju-ho without a transition period, due to the abrupt election triggered by the impeachment of former President Yoon Suk Yeol over his failed attempt to enforce martial law.

The Democratic Party candidate secured 49.42% of the vote, defeating conservative Kim Moon-soo. The election certificate is set to be collected by party floor leader Park Chan-dae in Gwacheon. Lee's inauguration ceremony will be modest and held at the National Assembly. Before the event, he is scheduled to visit Seoul National Cemetery.

Lee, 61, has been a prominent figure in national politics, especially after narrowly losing to Yoon in 2022. Known for his resilience, he has survived legal challenges, a stabbing incident, and internal party dissent, all while maintaining strong support. His backers, including the loyal "gaettal" fanbase, have remained steadfast.

His political journey began in 2006 with a failed mayoral bid in Seongnam. He later won in 2010 and was re-elected in 2014, gaining recognition for progressive welfare initiatives. In 2018, he became Gyeonggi Province’s first liberal governor in over a decade.

His ascent reached a turning point after Yoon’s martial law declaration, when Lee broadcasted a dramatic protest, galvanising public support and framing the election as a referendum against authoritarianism.

Lee’s presidency is more than a political comeback—it marks a shift in South Korea’s political climate. His rise, despite ongoing legal battles and controversy, points to public appetite for bolder, less conventional leadership. Whether this leads to renewal or deeper divides, Lee’s term is set to challenge the status quo and leave a lasting mark on the nation’s democracy.