President Lee Jae-myung has nominated Kim Jeong-gwan, the CEO of Doosan Enerbility's Marketing Division, as the new Minister of Trade, Industry and Energy. This significant appointment, announced on June 29, 2025, marks a pivotal moment for South Korea's industrial and energy sectors, especially as the country looks to reinvigorate its nuclear energy export strategy.
Kim Jeong-gwan, aged 56, hails from Jangseong in Jeollanam-do province. His academic credentials are impressive, having graduated from Gwangju Jeil High School and then earning a degree in Economics from Seoul National University. His career path reflects a blend of deep policy expertise and hands-on industrial experience, making him a uniquely qualified candidate for this crucial government role.
After passing the 36th Administrative Examination, Kim embarked on a distinguished career in public service. He held key positions within the Ministry of Finance, including Director of Industrial Customs and Foreign Capital, and Director of Comprehensive Policy. His expertise extended to the Ministry of Economy and Finance, where he served as Director of Policy Planning and Director of Economic Analysis. Notably, Kim also worked at the Bank of Korea, taking on roles such as Head of Capital Markets and Head of International Economy, reflecting his comprehensive understanding of both domestic and international economic dynamics.
His time at the Bank of Korea was marked by recognition for his dedication, including receiving a special commendation for his passionate service. Beyond his bureaucratic career, Kim expanded his professional horizon by joining the private sector. In 2018, he moved to DLI, an affiliate of Doosan Group's in-house economic research institute, as Deputy Head of the Strategy Support Office. Following DLI's rebranding as Doosan Management Research Institute, he became its CEO, showcasing his leadership in corporate research and strategy.
In March 2022, Kim took on the role of Marketing General Manager at Doosan Enerbility, a core affiliate of the Doosan Group formerly known as Doosan Heavy Industries. This appointment was particularly notable because it is rare for an external hire to lead marketing at such a pivotal company. Under his leadership, Doosan Enerbility has played an instrumental role in securing orders for nuclear power plant construction projects, most prominently the Dukovany nuclear power plant in the Czech Republic. His efforts extended to marketing nuclear power projects in Kazakhstan and other international markets, aligning with South Korea's ambitions to become a global leader in nuclear energy exports.
Kang Hoon-sik, Chief of Staff to President Lee, praised Kim as a "passionate bureaucrat" with a balanced view of the economy and substantial industrial experience. Kang emphasized that Kim is the right person to realize the President's philosophy of focusing on economic growth during this critical period.
Kim's nomination signals a potential strategic shift in South Korea's energy policy. If confirmed by the National Assembly, his appointment could mark a departure from the previous administration's nuclear phase-out policy, moving towards a stronger, export-driven nuclear energy agenda. This change is significant given the growing global demand for clean and reliable energy sources, where nuclear power remains a key player.
President Lee's decision to nominate Kim reflects a broader vision to combine economic policy expertise with real-world industrial experience. This approach aims to foster growth and innovation in South Korea's trade and energy sectors. Kim's extensive network, both domestically and internationally, is expected to enhance the country's competitiveness in global markets.
Kim Jeong-gwan's career trajectory embodies a rare blend of high-level policy formulation and practical business acumen. His background includes working as a World Bank cooperation finance expert, serving in the Presidential Secretariat, and holding influential roles at the Ministry of Economy and Finance and the Bank of Korea. This diverse experience equips him to navigate the complex challenges facing South Korea's industrial and energy policies.
His leadership at Doosan Enerbility, particularly in nuclear power marketing, has already had tangible impacts. The company's involvement in the Dukovany nuclear power plant project, as part of "Team Korea," has been a critical success story, showcasing South Korea's capabilities in the global nuclear energy market. Kim's role in these efforts underscores his ability to bridge government policy and corporate strategy effectively.
As South Korea seeks to strengthen its position in the global energy landscape, Kim's appointment is seen as a strategic move to align government leadership with industry expertise. The President's office highlighted Kim's recognition as a key talent capable of implementing policies that prioritize growth, reflecting the administration's commitment to economic revitalization.
Should Kim's nomination receive approval, the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy is poised for a renewed focus on export-led growth, particularly in the nuclear energy sector. This aligns with broader national goals to enhance energy security, reduce carbon emissions, and boost industrial competitiveness.
In summary, Kim Jeong-gwan's nomination represents a convergence of policy knowledge and industrial leadership at a time when South Korea aims to recalibrate its energy strategy. His proven track record in both government and the private sector positions him as a pivotal figure in shaping the country's future economic and energy landscape.
With the National Assembly's confirmation process underway, all eyes will be on Kim as he prepares to take on the challenges of steering one of South Korea's most vital ministries. His success could well determine the trajectory of the nation's industrial growth and its role in the global energy market for years to come.