SEOUL, June 08 (AJP) - President Lee Jae-myung named Sunday three new senior secretaries to lead political affairs, public communications, and civil affairs, reinforcing his early message of unity and reform.
The appointments include Woo Sang-ho, a four-term National Assembly member from the Democratic Party, as Senior Secretary for Political Affairs, Lee Kyu-yeon, a longtime journalist and former broadcaster JTBC executive, as Senior Secretary for Public Communication, and Oh Kwang-soo, a former high-ranking prosecutor, as Senior Secretary for Civil Affairs.
Chief of Staff Kang Hoon-sik announced the selections at a press briefing at the presidential office on June 8.
“President Lee has consistently stressed his commitment to serving all citizens,” Kang said. “These appointments reflect his intention to bridge divides and focus on the challenges people face in their everyday lives.”
Woo, a familiar face in progressive politics, previously led the Democratic Party as floor leader and as acting chair of the emergency leadership committee. His experience in both parliamentary strategy and party leadership appeared to weigh heavily in the decision.
“Senior Secretary Woo is someone who holds a firm philosophy of communication and coexistence,” Kang said. “Based on his long experience in the legislature, he brings a deep understanding of state affairs, rational judgment, and excellent political instincts.”
Lee Kyu-yeon’s appointment signals the administration’s intent to sharpen its messaging. Lee began his career at the JoongAng Ilbo and went on to serve as editorial writer and later as head of JTBC’s news division and content operations. He was the first South Korean journalist to receive a special award from the United States-based Investigative Reporters and Editors (IRE).
“Senior Secretary Lee is a journalist known for his objective and insightful analysis of social issues,” Kang said. “He is the right person to communicate the new administration’s reform agenda and will always prioritize dialogue with the public.”
Oh Kwang-soo, a former classmate of the president at the Judicial Research and Training Institute, built his career in the prosecution service with stints as chief of special investigations at the Seoul Central District Prosecutors’ Office and later as Daegu’s chief prosecutor. He is widely seen as an expert in handling high-profile and complex cases.
“Senior Secretary Oh, a former prosecutor, is widely respected both inside and outside the prosecution for his strong drive and integrity,” Kang noted. “He has a deep understanding of President Lee’s philosophy on prosecutorial reform and will support the president’s commitment to it.”
The appointment of a figure with a background in special investigations drew some questions from reporters. Kang responded directly. “President Lee is one of the most affected by political prosecution. Judicial reform is carried out through legislation, and we have confirmed Senior Secretary Oh’s commitment to that reform. We will make sure that the concerns raised do not actually happen.”
Kang wrapped up the announcement by stressing the larger vision behind the personnel picks.
“President Lee has made it clear that his leadership is not about conservatives or progressives. It’s about the people and the Republic of Korea,” he said. “He has asked the secretaries to focus on solving livelihood issues through national unity and communication.”
reporter
Park Sae-jin
swatchsjp@ajunews.com
Copyright ⓒ Aju Press All rights reserved.
View more comments