South Korean President Lee Jae-myung has announced six ministerial appointments and two senior secretarial nominations, marking his first major personnel decisions since taking office on June 4. The reshuffle signals priorities in economic revitalization and social policy reform as the administration addresses regional challenges.
Key appointments include:
Koo Yun-cheol, former vice finance minister, as Economy & Finance Minister and Deputy Prime Minister for Economic Affairs
Lee Jin-sook, former Chungnam National University president, as Education Minister and Deputy Prime Minister for Social Affairs
Jeong Seong-ho (Democratic Party) as Justice Minister
Industry veteran Kim Jung-kwan of Doosan Enerbility as Industry Minister
The selections blend political experience with technical expertise, particularly in economic sectors. Koo's appointment comes as South Korea faces inflationary pressures and global supply chain realignments, while Jeong Eun-kyeong's return as Health Minister follows her COVID-19 crisis management experience.
Analysts note the appointments emphasize continuity in economic policy while introducing fresh perspectives on social welfare and industrial innovation. The administration faces immediate challenges in balancing cross-strait relations and maintaining technological leadership in semiconductor manufacturing.
