Last year was a defining chapter in Korea's history. An abrupt and deeply troubling imposition of martial law in late 2024 tested the foundations of the nation’s constitutional order. Yet the episode did not end in retreat, instead revealing Korea’s democratic resilience. An alert citizenry, functioning institutions and adherence to the rule of law worked in concert to contain the threat and restore constitutional normalcy. Korea demonstrated, to itself and to the world, that democracy here is not a slogan but a living system capable of withstanding shock and emerging stronger. The inauguration of the Lee Jae Myung administration marked the institutional consolidation of that hard-won resilience. The new government took office amid high expectations and pressing demands to stabilize the people's livelihoods, repair social trust and reposition the nation for sustainable growth. Fair growth, social inclusion and structural reform are no longer aspirational ideals. They are prerequisites for national renewal in an era marked by economic uncertainty and social division. Externally, eco