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4w ago

Han Seong-sook Confirmed as Prime Minister as Democratic Party Rift Deepens

Her appointment signals a fast-moving push for AI and tech investment tied to the administration's legislative priorities ahead of the August party leadership vote

President Lee Jae Myung (2nd from L) and former President Moon Jae-in (R) attend a ceremony mourning the death of former President Roh Moo-hyun in Gimhae, about 310 kilometers southeast of Seoul, on May 23, 2026. (Pool photo) (Yonhap)
President Lee Jae Myung (L) holds hands with former President Moon Jae-in during their lunch meeting at Cheong Wa Dae in Seoul on July 1, 2026. (Yonhap)
This Jan. 16, 2026, file photo shows President Lee Jae Myung (R) shaking hands with Rep. Han Byung-do (L), floor leader of the ruling Democratic Party, at Cheong Wa Dae in Seoul. (Yonhap)
President Lee Jae Myung (R) talks to former President Moon Jae-in during their lunch meeting at Cheong Wa Dae in Seoul on July 1, 2026. (Yonhap)

Overview

  • Han Seong-sook was confirmed by the National Assembly and sworn in as prime minister on Wednesday after outgoing PM Kim Min-seok left office, with the Assembly vote recorded as 166 in favor.
  • Han, a former Naver CEO and current minister for SMEs and startups, pledged to speed AI and high-tech investment and to cut regulatory obstacles so private-sector gains reach ordinary people and young workers.
  • President Lee Jae Myung met former president Moon Jae-in for lunch and urged party unity, saying he would restore previous conciliatory North Korea policies and asking veterans to help bridge internal divides.
  • Lee also pressed the new Democratic Party floor leadership to fast-track key bills tied to his administration's major projects, making speedy legislation a test of party cohesion before the August convention.
  • Kim Min-seok, who gave a farewell call for civil servants to protect the vulnerable, is widely expected to run for the party chair, a move that could sharpen factional competition and shape which policies advance.