Why has South Korean Prez Lee appointed new deputy national security advisers ahead of the G7 summit?

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Why has South Korean Prez Lee appointed new deputy national security advisers ahead of the G7 summit?

Synopsis

In a strategic move, South Korean President Lee Jae-myung has appointed new deputy national security advisers just before the G7 summit. This bold action aims to bolster South Korea's military and economic security, marking a pivotal moment in the nation's diplomatic efforts. Learn more about the new appointments and their implications for the summit.

Key Takeaways

  • Kim Hyun-jong appointed as first deputy adviser for military affairs.
  • Lim Woong-soon to oversee foreign affairs policy.
  • Oh Hyun-joo named third adviser for economic security.
  • Lee's trip to Alberta includes important bilateral meetings.
  • Focus on enhancing South Korea's military and economic strategies.

Seoul, June 15 (NationPress) In a significant move, South Korean President Lee Jae-myung has appointed new deputy national security advisers, as announced by the presidential office on Sunday. This decision comes just before his inaugural overseas trip to the Group of Seven (G7) summit in Canada this week.

Kim Hyun-jong, a retired three-star general and former chief of staff of the Ground Operations Command, has been appointed as the first deputy national security adviser, according to Kang Hoon-sik, the presidential chief of staff.

Having previously participated in former President Moon Jae-in's defense reform initiative, Kim is seen as ideally positioned to enhance South Korea's military capabilities and spearhead military reform initiatives, Kang stated.

Lim Woong-soon, who currently serves as South Korea's ambassador to Canada and has been involved in preparations for the G7 summit, has been selected as the second deputy adviser, focusing on foreign affairs policy.

Moreover, Oh Hyun-joo, recognized as South Korea's first female envoy to the Holy See, has been designated as the third deputy adviser overseeing economic security matters, as reported by the Yonhap news agency.

President Lee emphasized that the forthcoming G7 summit will signify the revival of South Korea's summit diplomacy and negotiations pertaining to economic security, according to Kang.

Lee is set to travel to Alberta from Monday to Wednesday to participate in an expanded G7 session and engage in a series of bilateral discussions with leaders from major economies, as detailed by his office.

Additionally, Lee has appointed Ha Jung-woo, head of the Future AI Center at South Korea's tech company Naver, as the presidential secretary for artificial intelligence policy, a newly established role.

Point of View

It's vital to recognize that President Lee's appointments reflect a strategic approach to national security and diplomacy. By strengthening military and economic frameworks, South Korea positions itself as a proactive participant in global discussions, particularly during pivotal events like the G7 summit.
NationPress
15/06/2025

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the new appointments made by President Lee?
President Lee appointed Kim Hyun-jong as the first deputy national security adviser, Lim Woong-soon as the second, and Oh Hyun-joo as the third, each focusing on military, foreign affairs, and economic security, respectively.
What is the significance of the G7 summit for South Korea?
The G7 summit represents a crucial opportunity for South Korea to restore its summit diplomacy and engage in discussions on economic security with major global economies.
Who is the new presidential secretary for AI policy?
Ha Jung-woo, head of the Future AI Center at Naver, has been appointed as the presidential secretary for artificial intelligence policy, a newly created position.