Seoul: Wi Sung-lac, a retired diplomat with extensive experience in Russia and North Korea, has been appointed as the national security adviser by President Lee Jae-myung. Wi, who played a pivotal role in shaping Lee's "pragmatic diplomacy" strategy during the presidential campaign, is expected to guide the foreign policy of the Lee administration with a focus on maintaining stable ties with major regional powers such as China and Russia, alongside the United States alliance.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Wi, 71, is recognized for his practical and principled approach to foreign policy, aiming to balance national interests with international relations. President Lee expressed confidence in Wi's ability to achieve national goals of pragmatic diplomacy, advanced defense, and a peaceful Korean Peninsula, highlighting his extensive experience in foreign and security affairs.
Wi's diplomatic career includes roles such as the first secretary at the South Korean Embassy in Russia and director for Russia affairs at the foreign ministry's East European bureau. He also served as the director general for North American affairs in the early 2000s, dealing with North Korea nuclear issues during a period of heightened tensions.
In 2009, Wi was South Korea's chief negotiator in nuclear talks with Pyongyang, where he attempted to revive the stalled six-party talks involving the U.S., Japan, China, Russia, and the two Koreas. Although the efforts were ultimately unsuccessful, his experience in these negotiations underscored his capability in handling complex security issues.
Wi also served as the South Korean ambassador to Russia from 2011 to 2015, a tenure that coincided with significant events such as the death of North Korean leader Kim Jong-il. He transitioned into politics as a foreign policy adviser to Lee during the 2022 presidential campaign and subsequently won a parliamentary seat in 2024 as a proportional representative of the Democratic Party.
A native of Jangheung County in South Jeolla Province, Wi graduated from Seoul National University with a degree in diplomatic studies, having passed the foreign service exam in 1979. His extensive background and expertise are expected to significantly influence the Lee administration's approach to national and international security challenges.