Minister of Small and Medium Enterprises was appointed by President Lee; If approved, she will be the first woman in the position in 20 years
The president of South Korea, (Democratic Party, center-right), iappointed the Minister of Small and Medium Businesses and Startups, to occupy the post of Prime Minister. The appointment was made this Sunday (June 7, 2026) by the presidential office in Seoul.
If Parliament approves the choice, Han will become the first woman to hold the role in 20 years in the Asian country. Before her, the first woman in South Korean history to hold this position was Han Myeong-sook (2006-2007).
The then South Korean Prime Minister, , announced that he would resign from his position to prepare for the election of the leadership of the Democratic Party, the governing party.
In the South Korean presidential system, the position of prime minister has a predominantly ceremonial and administrative function.
According to the news agency the appointment was justified by Han’s experience in the technology field and his ability to promote inclusive economic development. Kang Hoon-sik, chief of staff of the South Korean presidency, presented the choice in an interview with journalists.
“Han will be able to transform South Korea’s economic growth – driven by the semiconductor boom and rising exports – into inclusive growth that reaches everyone, including small and medium-sized enterprises”said Kang.
The minister has a professional background in the technology area. Han was executive director of , a South Korean internet giant, before taking on the role in Lee Jae Myung’s government.
