Seoul: Rep. Kim Sung-whan of the ruling Democratic Party has been chosen to serve as the first environment minister under the Lee Jae Myung government. Kim, a three-term lawmaker, has been instrumental in advancing environmentally focused legislation within the National Assembly.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Kim played a significant role as co-chairman of the policy headquarters during Lee's election campaign, contributing to the formation of campaign pledges, particularly in the climate and energy sectors. His legislative efforts have been geared towards reducing reliance on nuclear power and promoting renewable energy. Notably, Kim was involved in amending the Act on Promotion of Development and Distribution of Environment-Friendly Motor Vehicles.
Kim was born in Yeosu in 1960 and is an alumnus of Yonsei University's College of Law. As a member of the National Assembly's Special Committee on Climate Crisis, his work in environmental legislation has positioned him as a prominent figure in shaping South Korea's environmental policies.