Lee Hui-beom, New Minister of Commerce, Industry and Energy

President Roh Moo-hyun on Monday appointed Lee Hui-beom, president of the Seoul National University of Technology, as the new minister of Commerce, Industry and Energy. The former minister, Yoon Jin-sik, resigned because he failed to handle the controversy over a nuclear waste disposal facility in Buan, North Jeolla Province.

“The new minister was the vice minister of Commerce, Industry and Energy, so he is well acquainted with works of the ministry,” said Jeung Chan-yong, aide to the president, adding, “The new minister will fully demonstrate his leadership in dealing with various pending issues.”

The president appointed the new minister after receiving a recommendation from Prime Minister Goh Kun.

Jeong-Hun Kim jnghn@donga.com