S. Korean finance minister departs for Bangkok to attend IMF, G20 ministerial meetings

Finance Minister Lee Hyoung-il embarked for Bangkok on Wednesday to attend crucial IMF and G20 ministerial meetings, according to his office. Departing from Incheon International Airport, Lee is set to engage in a series of multilateral discussions on global economic matters throughout the week. This marks Lee's inaugural appearance in such gatherings since assuming office last month.

His itinerary includes the G20 Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors Meeting on Thursday, where key discussions will precede the December G20 summit. The visit aims to enhance South Korea's international standing and strengthen ties with major financial authorities. On Saturday, Lee will join the International Monetary and Financial Committee (IMFC) meeting, with member countries expected to deliberate on addressing crucial economic issues.

Lee will also meet with leaders from various international organizations, including the IMF, Asian Development Bank, European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, and Central American Bank for Economic Integration. Additionally, he plans to brief prominent credit rating agencies on South Korea's economic situation. Lee is scheduled to hold bilateral meetings with his counterparts from Japan, Britain, Germany, Australia, and Saudi Arabia.

Before departing, Lee had a video conference with U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, who encouraged bilateral cooperation in economic and financial affairs.