South Korea's Historic Civilian Defence Appointment: A New Era Begins

In an unprecedented move, South Korea's President Lee Jae Myung appoints Ahn Gyu-back as the first civilian defence minister in 64 years, fulfilling a campaign promise post-martial law crisis. Lee reshuffles his cabinet, aiming to unify the nation and strengthen diplomatic and economic ties, especially with the U.S. amid new tariffs.

South Korea's President Lee Jae Myung announced the historic appointment of veteran lawmaker Ahn Gyu-back as the nation's first civilian defence minister in 64 years. The announcement marks a pivotal step in fulfilling a campaign promise following last December's troubling attempt to impose martial law.

Assuming office abruptly after former President Yoon Suk Yeol was removed due to his involvement in the martial law attempt, Lee has moved quickly to assemble a new cabinet. This includes notable figures such as former U.N. ambassador Cho Hyun as foreign minister and North Korea diplomacy advocate Chung Dong-young as unification minister. Yoon's prior defence minister is currently facing trial on insurrection charges.

President Lee's cabinet nominations are set to face parliamentary hearings in the coming weeks. With a transitional government already in place, Lee's administration is focused on uniting the politically divided country and addressing diplomatic challenges, particularly revolving around U.S. tariffs impacting Korea's export-reliant economy.

(With inputs from agencies.)