Seoul: President Lee Jae-myung on his first day in office made significant personnel announcements, appointing Rep. Kim Min-seok, a close associate and Democratic Party lawmaker, as his prime minister candidate. This marks a pivotal decision in Lee's new administration, as Kim's nomination is the first since Lee was sworn in earlier in the day.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Kim Min-seok, a seasoned politician with a background as a student activist, has been a prominent figure in Lee's presidential campaign. President Lee highlighted Kim's extensive legislative experience and his expertise in public policy, international affairs, and political leadership. These attributes, Lee emphasized, make Kim an ideal candidate to steer the nation through challenging times and work towards economic recovery.
In addition to Kim's nomination, President Lee appointed former Unification Minister Lee Jong-seok as the head of the National Intelligence Service. Both appointments are subject to confirmation hearings, with the prime minister nominee requiring parliamentary approval before formal appointment.
President Lee also announced key appointments for his administration's top aides. Kang Hoon-sik, a three-term Democratic Party lawmaker and a strategic figure in Lee's campaign, was named chief of staff. Kang has been a pivotal ally for Lee since the 2022 presidential election, where Lee narrowly lost to Yoon Suk Yeol.
Wi Sung-lac, a former diplomat and ambassador to Russia, was appointed as national security adviser. Wi's experience includes his role as chief negotiator in the six-party talks on North Korea's denuclearization. Lee expressed confidence in Wi's ability to advance his vision for pragmatic diplomacy and defense innovations for peace on the Korean Peninsula.
Additionally, retired Army General Hwang In-kwon was selected to lead the Presidential Security Service, and Kang Yu-jung, a Democratic Party lawmaker who served as Lee's campaign spokesperson, was named presidential spokesperson. These appointments reflect Lee's strategic approach to assembling a team capable of supporting his administration's objectives.