(LEAD) Lee appoints senior trade official Park Jung-sung as new trade minister

President Lee Jae Myung has named senior trade official Park Jung-sung as the new trade minister, according to a presidential spokesperson on Friday. The appointment comes as South Korea prepares to lead discussions with the United States regarding the latter's investment pledge to the former. Park, who previously served as vice trade minister, will succeed Yeo Han-koo, who was recently dismissed without explanation.

Unlike Yeo's departure, Park's appointment does not necessitate parliamentary approval or a confirmation hearing. This move comes as both nations engage in meaningful negotiations over South Korea's strategic investments in the U.S., with further details set to be disclosed next month. The two countries are currently in talks over their first investment project under South Korea's $350 billion investment commitment, announced last year as part of a trade agreement with the U.S. Park's selection as the new trade minister reflects his extensive experience in trade affairs, having held senior positions within the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Resources.

Furthermore, Lee has also appointed Choi Yong-chul, the vice chief of the National Fire Agency, to lead the agency, as reported by the spokesperson.