New Administration Begins

[Anchor Lead]

The new president’s term began the moment the National Election Commission confirmed the vote tally and the winner of the presidential election. President Moon Jae-in immediately got to work on government transition and his official duties after attending a simple inauguration ceremony.

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The new president's term began with an announcement of the winner by the Commissioner of the National Election Commission at the NEC general assembly. President Moon Jae-in received a report from the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff on the transfer of military command and was briefed on the military's readiness as well as the movements of North Korean forces. Following tradition, the new president first visited Seoul National Cemetery to pay his respects and then met with the Speaker at the National Assembly. He then visited all five parties, including the opposition, and met with the respective leader of each. Because this presidential election was held earlier than usual, the inauguration ceremony was simplified to only include the act of being sworn in. The inauguration ceremony started at noon today at the National Assembly's central hall. Key members from the three branches of government and party leaders attended the event. The presidential term began immediately after the simple ceremony, but an official event marking the launch of a new administration may be held once the cabinet members are appointed. With the confirmation of the new president, Prime Minister Hwang Kyo-ahn and ministers and vice ministers appointed during the previous administration have all submitted their resignations. However, the incoming and outgoing administrations are likely to coexist for some time, since ministerial nominees cannot be announced without a prime minister, who is authorized to make recommendations for cabinet posts. The administrative vacuum may be prolonged even further if the National Assembly delays its approval of a prime minister nominee or rejects ministerial candidates.