Taiwan Extends Congratulations to South Korea’s Newly Elected President Lee Jae-myung

Taipei: Taiwan's government on Wednesday extended its congratulations to South Korea after the snap presidential election held on Tuesday resulted in the victory of Lee Jae-myung from the opposition Democratic Party. Presidential Office spokesperson Karen Kuo conveyed President Lai Ching-te's well-wishes to the people of South Korea and to Lee, representing the government and people of the Republic of China, Taiwan's formal name. According to Focus Taiwan, Kuo highlighted that Taiwan and South Korea share the values of freedom and democracy and have long maintained close interactions in sectors such as trade and culture. President Lai expressed optimism that both nations will continue to expand cooperation in trade, technology, education, and culture, working jointly to uphold democracy, peace, stability, and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region. In a separate statement, Taiwan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) also congratulated the Korean people and government for electing a new head of state "through a peaceful and democratic process." The congratulatory message was sent through Taiwan's representative office in Seoul. MOFA emphasized the strong ties between Taiwan and South Korea, noting their shared commitment to freedom, democracy, human rights, and the rule of law. The Korean government has recently underscored the importance of maintaining peace and security across the Taiwan Strait, signaling that both Taipei and Seoul prioritize regional peace and prosperity while opposing authoritarian expansion. Building on this friendship, Taiwan looks forward to enhancing exchanges and cooperation with South Korea under the new administration in significant areas and working together to sustain peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. Lee Jae-myung, a 61-year-old former lawyer, was confirmed as president by the National Election Commission and assumed office immediately. He secured 49.42 percent of nearly 35 million votes, while his competitor Kim Moon-soo of the ruling People Power Party (PPP) garnere d 41.15 percent. The voter turnout, at 79.4 percent, was the highest for a presidential election since 1997. The election was prompted by the impeachment of former president Yoon Suk Yeol of the PPP due to his unsuccessful martial law attempt.