On June 4, 2025, as Lee Jae-myung took office as the President of South Korea, his new government sprang into action without the traditional transition committee, signaling a swift and decisive start. The early appointments to the presidential office have drawn significant attention, with many viewing these initial personnel choices as the backbone of Lee's administration and a clear reflection of his political style and priorities.
Among the first to join the presidential office was Kim Nam-guk, a member of the so-called "7-person group" closely aligned with Lee. Kim, who served as Lee's campaign office manager during the 2022 presidential election, is set to oversee digital communication efforts. His presence underscores the administration's focus on robust and modernized communication strategies.
Another notable figure is Kwon Hyuk-ki, who brings valuable experience from his time as the Chunchoogwan Director during the Moon Jae-in administration, which also began without a transition committee after the early election in 2017. Kwon is expected to serve as the Protocol Senior Secretary, a role crucial for managing the ceremonial and diplomatic functions of the presidency.
Joining them is Lee Jung-do, the former Chief Protocol Secretary under Moon Jae-in, tasked with preparing the logistics and organization for the presidential office's relocation to the new Yongsan Government Complex in Seoul. This move is symbolic of Lee's intent to modernize and perhaps decentralize government operations.
The presidential office has also welcomed Choi Sung-ah, who served as spokesperson for former UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon. Choi, who was appointed as a foreign policy spokesperson during Lee's campaign in April 2025, will likely continue in this capacity, managing the administration's communication with international media and shaping South Korea's diplomatic narrative.
In the realm of media and public relations, Lee Gyu-yeon, former CEO of JTBC and a respected investigative journalist, is strongly considered for the first Public Relations Senior Secretary position. Lee's career includes leadership roles at JoongAng Ilbo, JTBC's investigative planning division, and serving as the host of the acclaimed investigative program "Spotlight." He also played a significant role during the presidential campaign as the head of the Social Integration Strategy Division for the Democratic Party's Future Economic Growth Strategy Committee and as a public relations special correspondent.
Lee has consented to personnel verification but has not yet received official confirmation of his appointment, reflecting the thorough vetting process for high-ranking government officials. His potential appointment signals a commitment to transparency and investigative rigor in the administration's communication efforts.
Complementing Lee Gyu-yeon's role is Kim Sang-ho, a former head of the Democratic Party's campaign public relations special task force and a member of Lee's "Seongnam/Gyeonggi line." Kim, who previously worked at Dong-A Ilbo and served as Lee's media aide during the election campaign, is expected to become the Chunchoogwan Director, effectively managing relations with the press corps. Like Lee, Kim has acknowledged learning about his potential appointment through media reports and awaits official confirmation.
Another media figure joining the presidential office is Ahn Gyu-ryeong, a former YTN anchor known for his courageous reporting during the 12.3 emergency martial law era. He is anticipated to serve as the Deputy Spokesperson, further strengthening the administration's communication team with experienced journalists.
Security and administrative appointments also reflect a blend of experience and political significance. Park Gwan-cheon, a former Cheong Wa Dae administrator with a police background, who was involved in drafting the controversial "Jeong Yun-hoe document" during the Park Geun-hye administration, has been appointed as the head of the Presidential Security Service vehicle team, underscoring the importance of trusted security personnel in the new government.
On the political leadership front, Lee Jae-myung has nominated Kim Min-seok, a 61-year-old Supreme Council member of the Democratic Party, as the first Prime Minister. Kim is a seasoned politician from the 86 generation of student activists, having served as the president of Seoul National University’s student council and chairman of the Jeonhyopryeon. He is recognized as a strategic thinker within the party and was a key figure in Lee's 2022 presidential campaign as the head of the strategy planning headquarters. His appointment is seen as a move to stabilize the administration early and ensure experienced leadership at the helm.
Kang Hoon-sik, a 52-year-old three-term lawmaker from Chungnam Asan E, has been nominated as the Presidential Chief of Staff. Known for his moderate and non-factional stance, Kang also managed strategic planning and operations during Lee's last campaign. His role will be pivotal in coordinating the president’s agenda and managing the presidential office.
Lee Han-joo, 69, former head of the Gyeonggi Research Institute and a close policy advisor to Lee during his governorship of Gyeonggi Province, has been nominated as the Policy Chief. Lee was deeply involved in the development of the basic income policy, a flagship initiative of Lee's administration. His appointment signals a continued emphasis on innovative social policies.
In foreign affairs and national security, key appointments are taking shape. Democratic Party lawmaker Wi Sung-rak is being considered for National Security Advisor, former Unification Minister Lee Jong-seok as National Intelligence Service Director, and Kim Hyun-jong, former 2nd Deputy Director of National Security, is also in the mix for a senior security role. These choices suggest a focus on experienced hands to navigate complex geopolitical challenges.
Other close associates of President Lee are expected to fill senior secretarial roles. Kim Byung-woo, from the "7-person group," is a candidate for Political Senior Secretary, while Oh Gwang-soo, a lawyer with a background in the Ministry of Justice, is under consideration for Civil Affairs Senior Secretary. Kang Yu-jung, a Democratic Party lawmaker and campaign spokesperson, is likely to serve as the presidential spokesperson, ensuring consistent messaging from the administration.
These appointments highlight Lee Jae-myung's strategy to blend seasoned political operatives with media-savvy professionals and experienced policy experts. The absence of a formal transition committee has not hindered the early establishment of a comprehensive governance team, suggesting a desire for swift action and continuity in government functions.
As these appointments are finalized and announced, the Lee administration prepares to face the challenges ahead with a team that embodies both loyalty and expertise, signaling a new chapter in South Korea’s political landscape.
