SEOUL, South Korea (AP) — South Korean President Lee Jae Myung made a historic commute to Cheong Wa Dae, the nation’s traditional presidential palace, for the first time since his inauguration in June. This symbolic return comes more than three years after his predecessor, Yoon Suk Yeol, relocated the presidential office to a Defense Ministry facility.
This event is significant as it marks a shift back to historical norms and reflects Lee’s intentions to distance his administration from the controversial legacy of his predecessor, Yoon, who faced political upheaval during his term.
Key Developments
- Lee Jae Myung commuted to Cheong Wa Dae, the first presidential commute since May 9, 2022.
- The palace was temporarily closed to the public during the relocation of the presidential office under Yoon’s administration.
- Officials raised the presidential flag early Monday to signify the official return of Cheong Wa Dae as the presidential office.
- Lee held a tea meeting with senior aides and inspected the National Crisis Management Center during his first day back.
- He expressed condolences to families affected by a tragic air crash incident and called for a thorough investigation.
- Lee will continue to commute from another presidential residence until a full relocation is complete.
Full Report
Presidential Commute to Cheong Wa Dae
President Lee Jae Myung’s return to Cheong Wa Dae marks a significant moment in South Korean politics, representing a departure from the earlier move initiated by Yoon Suk Yeol. Upon arrival, Lee was greeted by saluting guards and enthusiastic supporters waving flags.
To commemorate the occasion, officials raised a presidential flag featuring two phoenixes at midnight, signaling the palace’s renewed status. Subsequently, Lee shared a video of his interactions with advisors in one of Cheong Wa Dae’s rooms, highlighting his focus on collaboration in governance.
Inspections and Statements
Following his initial meetings, Lee inspected the renovated National Crisis Management Center, which is designed for emergency response coordination. In a notable public statement, Lee expressed sympathy for the families of the 179 people who lost their lives in a Jeju Air crash last year, urging relevant authorities to fully determine the factors leading to the tragedy.
Current Residence and Future Plans
For the time being, President Lee will commute from another location in Seoul until the complete transition of the presidential office to Cheong Wa Dae occurs, although a specific timeline has not yet been announced.
Context & Previous Events
The last president to officially commute to Cheong Wa Dae was former President Moon Jae-in on May 9, 2022, the day he completed his term. Yoon’s administration, which began operating from a converted Defense Ministry building, aimed to enhance public accessibility, yet faced scrutiny and criticism over security and costs involved in the relocation.
Yoon’s presidency ended amid controversy when he declared martial law in December 2024, leading to his impeachment later that month. He was ousted in April 2025 and subsequently re-arrested, facing serious criminal charges that include rebellion.
