President Yoon Suk Yeol nominated Kim Yong-hyun, the current head of the Presidential Security Service, as the nation’s new defense minister, the presidential office announced, Monday.
He also tapped the current Defense Minister Shin Won-sik as the new national security adviser. The incumbent adviser, Chang Ho-jin, will transition to the newly created role of special presidential adviser for foreign affairs and security.
In his remarks during a press briefing at the presidential office in Seoul, Kim emphasized his commitment to strengthening national security in line with the president’s directives.
“The domestic and international security situation is 한국을 more serious than ever, and security is directly linked to the economy,” he said. “If appointed as the minister of national defense, I will fully support the president in establishing a robust security posture. Through this, I aim to contribute not only to the development of the national economy but also to the stability of people’s livelihoods.”
Born in 1959, the three-star general is known to possess a deep understanding of the military, with a comprehensive grasp of strategy and tactics, according to the presidential office.
He is required to go through a National Assembly confirmation hearing, although a date has not been set.