South Korean President Lee Jae-myung has nominated Han Seong-sook, the country's minister for small and midsize businesses and startups, to be prime minister, the presidential office announced on Sunday. If approved by parliament, Han would become South Korea's first female prime minister in two decades.
A Self-Made Leader
Han, who previously served as chief executive of South Korean internet giant Naver, is expected to spearhead the nation's AI-driven economic transformation, according to presidential chief of staff Kang Hoon-shik. Speaking at a press briefing, Kang said, '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.'
Kang described Han as a leader capable of delivering growth that benefits the entire nation, highlighting that she rose from an ordinary office worker to become the head of a leading digital company. 'Han combines the practicality and innovative spirit of the private sector and understands better than anyone the need for a major AI-driven transformation in our society,' Kang added.
Career and Background
Before entering government, Han built her career in the technology sector. She served as CEO of Naver and held positions as senior vice president overseeing services at Naver and head of the search business division at Empas. She graduated from Sookmyung Women's University with a degree in English language and literature.
Record as SMEs Minister
Kang highlighted Han's performance as SMEs minister, noting that she emphasized speed, results, and engagement with businesses on the ground while working to support small business owners. According to the presidential office, her tenure helped deliver tangible achievements, including record-high exports by SMEs and efforts to strengthen Korea's startup ecosystem.
The role of prime minister is largely ceremonial and administrative under South Korea's presidential system. Han's nomination now awaits parliamentary approval.
