President Lee Jae-myung's Bold Appointments: AI Chief from Naver and New National Security Team Signal Korea's Future

A New Era of Appointments: Who Are the New Faces?

Did you know? On June 13, 2025, President Lee Jae-myung announced a sweeping set of appointments that are making waves in South Korea. Ha Jung-woo, formerly of Naver’s AI Innovation Center, was named the first AI Future Planning Chief. Alongside him, Kim Hyun-jong, a seasoned military strategist, became the 1st Deputy Director of the National Security Office. Diplomatic heavyweights Im Woong-soon and Oh Hyun-joo, both with impressive international resumes, were appointed as the 2nd and 3rd Deputy Directors. This blend of tech, military, and diplomatic expertise signals a strategic pivot for Korea’s future.

Ha Jung-woo: The Face of Korea’s AI Sovereignty

Ha Jung-woo’s appointment has caught the attention of tech enthusiasts and policy watchers alike. As the former head of Naver’s AI Innovation Center, he has been a vocal advocate for sovereign AI—AI technology developed and controlled within Korea, free from foreign dependence. His new role is seen as a commitment by the government to push forward with homegrown AI innovation. Blogs and news outlets such as the Korea Herald and Naver Blog have discussed how Ha’s vision could shape not only Korea’s tech industry but also its national security posture.

Military and Diplomatic Strength: Meet the National Security Team

Kim Hyun-jong, now the 1st Deputy Director, is no stranger to defense circles. With experience as a Defense Reform Secretary and policy leader in the Army and Ministry of Defense, he brings deep strategic insight. Im Woong-soon, the new 2nd Deputy Director, has a robust background in U.S.-Korea relations, having served as a senior official at the Korean Embassy in Washington and as Ambassador to Canada. Oh Hyun-joo, the 3rd Deputy Director, is celebrated as Korea’s first female Ambassador to the Vatican and has a track record in international development and UN advisory roles. This team is poised to tackle both traditional and emerging security challenges.

Community Buzz: What Are Koreans Saying?

Online communities like DC Inside, FM Korea, and Naver Café have exploded with reactions. Some users praise the appointments as a forward-thinking move, especially lauding the focus on AI sovereignty and the inclusion of women in top security posts. Others express skepticism, questioning whether such rapid innovation can be balanced with national security needs. A popular comment on Nate Pann reads, ‘It’s about time Korea leads in AI, but let’s not forget security basics!’ Meanwhile, tech forums are abuzz with speculation about how Ha Jung-woo’s strategies might influence Korea’s global tech standing.

Cultural Context: Why AI and Security Matter in Korea

For international readers, it’s important to understand Korea’s unique position. The country faces ongoing security threats from its northern neighbor and is also racing to stay competitive in the global tech industry. The emphasis on sovereign AI reflects concerns about data privacy, economic independence, and national resilience. Appointing leaders from both military and tech backgrounds is seen as a way to bridge Korea’s security legacy with its digital ambitions. This dual focus is a hallmark of Korean policymaking in the 2020s.

Media and Blog Highlights: How the Story Is Covered

Leading news outlets like MoneyS, Yonhap News, Korea Herald, Korea Times, Chosun Ilbo, and Seoul News have all covered these appointments, noting their significance for both national security and technological advancement. Naver and Tistory blogs have provided in-depth analyses, with posts such as ‘Insights on Ha Jung-woo’s appointment as AI Future Planning Chief’ and ‘AI innovation and national security: A new era’ sparking thoughtful debate. Bloggers often highlight the symbolic importance of these appointments, comparing them to global trends in tech governance.

Fan and Fandom Perspectives: The Power of Public Opinion

In Korea, fandom culture extends beyond K-pop to politics and technology. Some online communities treat Ha Jung-woo almost like a celebrity, dissecting his past interviews and public speeches. There’s a sense of pride that a homegrown tech leader is taking the helm of national AI policy. On the flip side, critics worry about potential overhype and the risks of putting too much faith in a single figure. This dynamic interplay between skepticism and enthusiasm is a defining feature of Korean online discourse.

Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Korea’s AI and Security Policy?

The new appointments are just the beginning. Observers expect rapid policy rollouts in AI research, cybersecurity, and international diplomacy. There’s anticipation that Korea will set new standards in AI ethics and data protection, possibly influencing global norms. As the government seeks to balance innovation with security, all eyes are on how this new team will navigate the challenges ahead. For global readers, Korea’s approach offers a fascinating case study in how a nation can leverage its tech and security expertise to shape its future.