According to political sources on June 4, the verification process for these candidates is underway as potential successors to Prime Minister Kim Min-seok.
The Blue House plans to finalize the Prime Minister appointment soon and will subsequently proceed with personnel changes in the Cabinet and the Blue House.
Minister Jeong is noted as a long-time ally of President Lee, having been a classmate at the Judicial Research and Training Institute and a prominent figure in the pro-Lee faction. He has demonstrated solid performance as Minister of Justice, leading efforts for prosecutorial reform.
Minister Han, a former CEO of Naver, is currently spearheading the government's policies focused on small and medium-sized enterprises and the livelihoods of small business owners. If appointed, she would become the first female Prime Minister of this administration and the first woman to hold the position since former Prime Minister Han Myung-sook.
Chief of Staff Kang is regarded as one of President Lee's closest aides since the new administration took office. He has effectively managed the Blue House without incident over the past year and has gained experience in diplomatic and economic matters as the President's special envoy for strategic economic cooperation.
However, the Democratic Party's disappointing performance in the June 3 local elections has raised concerns, leading to speculation that the timing of the Cabinet reshuffle may be delayed as President Lee deliberates on the nature and timing of the upcoming changes.
There is a cautious atmosphere in political circles, as the appointment of a new Prime Minister could signal a shift ahead of the party convention.
Given that Prime Minister Kim is considered a candidate for party leadership, there are predictions that the timing for his resignation and the subsequent appointment of a successor may be postponed.
The Blue House issued a general statement regarding personnel matters, with Chief Spokesperson Gam Yu-jeong stating during a briefing at the Chunchugwan that "no decisions have been made regarding the Cabinet reshuffle or appointments," but added that the government would carefully review public sentiment from the local elections and consider necessary changes if needed.
Regarding the results of the June 3 local elections, she remarked, "Every election serves as an opportunity to gauge the diverse voices of the people," emphasizing that the government aims to respond to public sentiment to stabilize livelihoods, promote economic growth, and foster national unity.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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