President Lee Names Former IMF Director Huh Chang Second Vice Finance Minister
Updated (2 articles)
Appointment Announced on February 2, 2026 President Lee Jae‑Myung announced Huh Chang’s appointment as South Korea’s second vice finance minister on Feb. 2, 2026, with the presidential office releasing an official photograph of the new appointee [1][2]. The announcement came through Cheong Wa Dae, confirming the administration’s intent to reinforce economic leadership. Huh will join the Ministry of Economy and Finance alongside existing senior officials.
Portfolio Focuses on Currency and Trade Policy Huh Chang’s duties include managing foreign‑exchange rates and overseeing foreign‑trade policy, positioning him at the core of South Korea’s external economic strategy [1][2]. He will coordinate currency interventions and negotiate trade matters with international partners. The role is expected to enhance the ministry’s responsiveness to global market fluctuations.
Extensive IMF and Ministry Experience Underpins Appointment Huh previously served as an executive director at the International Monetary Fund and held multiple senior positions within the finance ministry [2]. His IMF background equips him with expertise in global financial coordination and crisis management. The administration cites his experience as a key asset for navigating Korea’s economic challenges.
Oh Tae‑seog Takes Lead of Korea AeroSpace Administration On the same day, President Lee appointed Oh Tae‑seog as head of the Korea AeroSpace Administration [1][2]. Oh, currently director of the Korea Institute of Science & Technology Evaluation and Planning, previously served as first vice minister of science and ICT, overseeing the Nuri launch vehicle program. His selection signals a push to advance South Korea’s space ambitions.
Minor Reporting Differences Noted Between Sources Yonhap’s first article does not mention spokesperson Kang Yu‑jung, whereas the second article cites Kang confirming the appointment [2]. Both pieces agree on the core facts of the appointments and the officials’ responsibilities. No other substantive contradictions appear across the reports.
Sources
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1.
Yonhap (Article 1): Lee appoints former IMF director as vice finance minister – Details President Lee’s Feb. 2, 2026 announcement of Huh Chang’s appointment, outlines his foreign‑exchange and trade portfolio, and notes Oh Tae‑seog’s aerospace role, emphasizing the administration’s strategic focus .
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2.
Yonhap (Article 2): Lee appoints former IMF director as South Korea’s second vice finance minister – Confirms Huh Chang’s appointment, adds spokesperson Kang Yu‑jung’s verification, repeats portfolio responsibilities, and highlights Oh Tae‑seog’s aerospace leadership, providing a slightly richer context .
Timeline
2022‑2023 – Oh Tae‑seog serves as first vice minister of science and ICT, chairing the committee that oversees development of the domestically built Nuri launch vehicle and gaining high‑tech project experience. [1]
Feb 2, 2026 – President Lee Jae Myung announces the appointment of former IMF executive director Huh Chang as South Korea’s second vice finance minister, signaling a push to reinforce external economic management. [1][2]
Feb 2, 2026 – Huh Chang receives responsibility for foreign exchange rates and foreign trade, positioning him at the core of the nation’s currency policy and international trade strategy. [1][2]
Feb 2, 2026 – The presidential office, Cheong Wa Dae, publishes an official photograph of Huh Chang, confirming his identity and demonstrating the administration’s transparency. [1]
Feb 2, 2026 – Oh Tae‑seog is appointed head of the Korea AeroSpace Administration, expanding his role in national space policy after his prior leadership of the Nuri launch vehicle program. [1][2]
Feb 2, 2026 – The Lee administration states that these senior appointments aim to strengthen economic stability and advance South Korea’s space ambitions, reflecting a coordinated strategy across finance and aerospace sectors. [1]