South Korea President Nominates Han Seong-sook as PM

South Korean President Lee Jae Myung has nominated Han Seong-sook, the current Minister of SMEs and Startups, to be the country's next prime minister. The nomination, announced on June 7, 2026, sets the stage for Han to become South Korea's first female prime minister in nearly two decades, pending approval by the National Assembly.

If confirmed, Han would be the nation's second female prime minister, following Han Myeong-sook, who served from 2006 to 2007. The nomination marks a significant shift from the outgoing prime minister, political veteran Kim Min-seok, who is stepping down to seek the leadership of the ruling Democratic Party.

President Lee's selection underscores a strategic focus on technological innovation and inclusive economic growth. Presidential Chief of Staff Kang Hoonsik, announcing the nomination, said Han's unique background as a former technology executive and a cabinet minister positions her to lead what the administration terms a national "AI transformation." Kang stated that Han is expected to successfully accomplish this transition and lead growth for all Koreans, not just a segment of society.

Han, 59, is a prominent figure in South Korea's technology...