12 hours ago
Former diplomat Lee Hyuk tapped as South Korea's ambassador to Japan
South Korean President Lee Jae-myung's administration is set to appoint former diplomat Lee Hyuk as ambassador to Japan.
The 67-year-old Lee has worked three times at South Korea's embassy in Japan as secretary and minister. He also served as head of the Foreign Ministry's Asian and Pacific Affairs Bureau. He is known as a "Japan hand" having dealt with policies on Japan for many years.
Lee is expected to assume the post with Japan's consent.
In May this year, Lee wrote on South Korea's relations with Japan for leading South Korean newspaper, JoongAng Ilbo.
He noted that while responding clearly and strictly on historical issues, it is separately time for Seoul to start full-fledged exchanges toward the future with Tokyo.
On Saturday, President Lee is to start his first visit to Japan since taking office. He has repeatedly expressed his intension to develop ties with Japan, mainly on the economy.
Lee Hyuk is expected to serve as a bridge between the two countries.
South Korean media are reporting that Kang Kyung-wha, who served as foreign minister under former President Moon Jae-in's administration, will be appointed as ambassador to the United States.
