In a powerful moment of national symbolism, South Korean President Lee Jae Myung reclaimed the iconic Cheong Wa Dae presidential palace on Monday, marking a significant transition in the country's political landscape. After three years of administrative absence, the historic site once again became the operational center of South Korea's executive branch, signaling a return to traditional governance.

Lee's arrival at the palace, located on the lower slopes of a mountain in northern Seoul, was a carefully choreographed event that reflected both historical continuity and political transformation. At midnight, officials raised a presidential flag featuring two phoenixes, symbolizing rebirth and renewal. As Lee's motorcade passed through the compound gates, supporters enthusiastically waved the South Korean flag and chanted his name, underscoring the public's engagement with this momentous shift.

The palace, spanning approximately 250,000 square meters and nestled behind the historic Gyeongbokgung Palace, has served as the presidential headquarters since South Korea's founding after World War II. Lee's predecessor, Yoon Suk Yeol, had controversially relocated the presidential office to the Defense Ministry compound, spending around $40 million on the move and arguing that the hillside location was too isolated from the public.

Upon arriving, Lee immediately began reestablishing the palace's governmental functions. He held a tea meeting with senior aides, inspected the refurbished National Crisis Management Center—an underground security coordination bunker—and formally accepted Benin's ambassador-designate. The president also issued a compassionate statement commemorating the families of the 179 people who tragically died in a Jeju Air crash a year ago, urging a comprehensive investigation into the accident's causes.

Lee's return to Cheong Wa Dae follows a tumultuous political period that saw his predecessor Yoon dramatically removed from power. After declaring a brief martial law in December 2024 during a legislative standoff, Yoon was impeached, removed by Constitutional Court ruling, and subsequently re-arrested. He now faces serious criminal charges, including rebellion, which could result in a life sentence or potentially even the death penalty.

The presidential office confirmed that Lee will temporarily commute from his current residence until a permanent move can be completed. Meanwhile, parts of Cheong Wa Dae remain open to the public, a practice initiated by Yoon that has attracted millions of visitors and maintained the site's accessibility.

This return to the traditional presidential palace represents more than a mere administrative change—it symbolizes a recommitment to democratic processes and institutional continuity. By reclaiming Cheong Wa Dae, President Lee sends a powerful message about respecting governmental traditions while simultaneously charting a path forward for South Korea's democratic institutions.