This morning I had the opportunity to witness Park Geun-hye take the oath of office and formally become Korea’s 18th President. It was an awe-inspiring event that had me on-site around 7am with the event scheduled for 9am. After several performances (including PSY’s Gangnam Style), the ceremony started.

The ceremony itself was quite subdued. Park made her remarks (which were available in Korean and English). Of note, I thought it interesting that she stated that she wished to move Korea toward a merit society, rather than one based on connections associated with colleges. Good on her.

Probably the most impressive item in the ceremony was the closing Arirang number sung four different ways with four talented female vocalists. The rendition was stunning and gave me chills.

Park is now officially President and must deal with a number of important issues. Probably one of the most important tests she will face initially is how best respond to North Korea, as subject she is very familiar with.