Is President Lee Jae Myung Sending Kim Chong-in as Special Envoy to the US?
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Synopsis
Seoul is abuzz with the possibility of President Lee Jae Myung appointing former PPP interim leader Kim Chong-in as a special envoy to the US. This move could signal a shift in diplomatic relations following recent political instability. Stay tuned to see how these appointments unfold and what it means for South Korea's foreign policy.
Key Takeaways
- President Lee Jae Myung is considering appointing Kim Chong-in as special envoy to the US.
- Other Democratic Party lawmakers are also under consideration for the delegation.
- The special envoys aim to demonstrate stability in South Korea's political situation.
- Official announcements regarding the envoys are expected soon.
- The envoys will support South Korea’s diplomatic efforts but won’t negotiate specific agendas.
Seoul, July 7 (NationPress) President Lee Jae Myung is contemplating the appointment of Kim Chong-in, a former interim leader of the People Power Party (PPP), as a special envoy to the United States, according to sources privy to the discussions on Monday.
Additionally, Democratic Party lawmakers Lee Un-ju and Kim Woo-young are also being evaluated for inclusion in the proposed delegation to the US, as mentioned by the sources.
"Discussions regarding the special envoy appointments are ongoing," stated a senior official from the presidential office, who did not provide further details about the final roster or the timing of the envoy's deployment.
Woo Sang-ho, the presidential secretary for political affairs, indicated that consultations are being held with 14 nations regarding the special envoy dispatch and is anticipating an official announcement next week. However, he noted that the number of countries involved may decrease as discussions progress.
"The purpose of the special envoys is to communicate to other nations that the previously unstable political climate following the declaration of martial law has stabilized and to convey South Korea's desire to restore and enhance cooperation with them," Woo elaborated to reporters.
Although the envoys will not engage in negotiations on specific agendas, Woo emphasized that if sent to the US, they would likely bolster Seoul's diplomatic initiatives to tackle urgent matters, as reported by the Yonhap news agency.
Currently, National Security Advisor Wi Sung-lac and Trade Minister Yeo Han-koo are in Washington as part of broader diplomatic efforts aimed at addressing tariff and alliance issues, prior to the expiration of US President Donald Trump's suspension on steep tariffs on Tuesday.
In addition to the US envoy, former Prime Minister Chung Sye-kyun is allegedly being considered for the special envoy role to Japan, while former National Assembly Speaker Park Byeong-seug is being evaluated for China.
Furthermore, Kim Jin-pyo, another former parliamentary speaker, is reportedly a candidate for the special envoy to Australia, and Rep. Park Jie-won from the ruling Democratic Party is under consideration for the special envoy position for Poland.
Point of View
It is imperative to recognize the significance of these potential appointments. With South Korea navigating through a challenging political landscape, the selection of special envoys could play a critical role in shaping its diplomatic future. The nation stands to benefit from enhanced communication and cooperation with key global partners.
NationPress
22/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is being considered for the envoy position to the US?
President Lee Jae Myung is considering appointing former PPP interim leader Kim Chong-in as the special envoy to the US.
What is the purpose of the special envoys?
The special envoys aim to assure other countries that South Korea's political situation has stabilized and to foster cooperation.
When can we expect an official announcement?
An official announcement regarding the special envoys is expected next week.
Are the envoys expected to negotiate specific agendas?
No, the envoys will not negotiate specific agendas but will support Seoul's diplomatic efforts.
Which other countries are potential envoys being considered for?
Other potential envoy positions include Japan, China, Australia, and Poland.
