Seoul, South Korea – In a move reflecting a focus on empowering technological and economic talent, the South Korean presidential office announced the nomination of current Minister of SMEs and Startups,
Han Seung-sook, to become prime minister in President Lee Jae-myung’s cabinet.
This was reported by the South Korean news agency Yonhap.
A new phase of leadership
This nomination comes at a crucial time, coinciding with the first anniversary of President Lee’s administration.
If Han receives parliamentary approval, she will make history as the first female prime minister under President Lee.
She would also be only the second woman to hold the position in South Korea’s history, following Han Myung-sook’s tenure from 2006 to 2007.
Han Seung-sook’s background is rooted in extensive professional experience in the technology sector,
having previously served as CEO of the online portal giant Naver.
Presidential Chief of Staff Kang Hoon-sik praised this experience,
describing her as the ideal person to lead the “historic transition to the era of artificial intelligence.”
Kang emphasized that Han possesses the vision to translate the economic gains
from the semiconductor boom and rising exports into “inclusive growth,”
benefiting small and medium-sized enterprises and all segments of society.
Resignations and structural changes
This move comes in response to current Prime Minister Kim Min-seok’s readiness to resign.
Reports indicate that Kim intends to dedicate himself to party work,
planning to run for the chairmanship of the ruling Democratic Party at its congress later this summer.
The presidential office expressed its gratitude for Kim’s service, attributing recent economic achievements to his administrative performance.
Meanwhile, Han Seung-sook is preparing for parliamentary confirmation hearings.
The Prime Minister’s Office has formed a special team to support her during this process.
These changes come as the South Korean public awaits further developments,
particularly following President Lee’s announcement that he will hold
a press conference on Monday to unveil his political vision for the second year of his five-year term.
It is worth noting that the cabinet reshuffle is taking place amidst a climate of public activism.
Seoul has witnessed demonstrations demanding a rerun of the elections.
This places domestic political challenges at the forefront of Han Seung-sook’s priorities should her appointment be officially confirmed.
