The U.S. ally has been without a permanent leader since late last year, when Yoon Suk Yeol was impeached over his botched declaration of martial law.

Images from the election of South Korea's new president are as peaceful and orderly as you’d expect to see in any vibrant democracy

Lee Jae-myung was sworn in as South Korea's president on Wednesday, just hours after his victory was certified in a snap election that brought an end to months of political turmoil in the country.