South Korean President Lee set to spend first official day at Cheong Wa Dae after relocation

Seoul, Dec. 28 – President Lee Jae‑Myung will start working at the re‑opened Cheong Wa Dae, the historic presidential compound in central Seoul, early this week, officials said Sunday. The move comes after the office was shifted to the defense ministry complex in May 2022, making this the first time the president’s seat has returned to Cheong Wa Dae since then.

Lee will begin his official duties Monday, when the symbolic presidential flag—featuring two phoenixes—will be hoisted at dawn. The presidential office will again carry the name Cheong Wa Dae, but his main workspace will be in the Yeomin building complex rather than the main presidential building. The Yeomin complex houses staff offices, and Lee’s presence there is intended to foster closer interaction with officials. The iconic main building, known for its blue roof and situated about 500 m from the complex, will be reserved for formal occasions such as summits and credential ceremonies.

Earlier in the week, Lee paid tribute to families of fallen officers. He met with relatives of police officers, firefighters, Coast Guard members, and others who lost their lives while protecting the public during disasters and emergencies. “I’ve often heard that it is hard to find a country as safe as ours anywhere in the world, and that’s thanks to the sweat and hard work of so many public officials,” Lee said. “It is because of the noble dedication of those who rushed into raging flames and rough, surging waves that people are able to enjoy peaceful daily lives.”

Lee stressed that sacrifices made to safeguard citizens must be properly honored and compensated. He called it “the government’s responsibility.” “Our government will uphold the principle of providing special compensation for special sacrifices,” he added. “I will make a country where dedication to the people is returned with price and honor to repay your sacrifices.”

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