Ex‑Doosan chief named special envoy to US for trade outreach

From left, this combination photo shows Park Yong-man, former chairman of the Korea Chamber of Commerce and Industry who was appointed Thursday as head of a special delegation to the United States, Democratic Party of Korea (DPK) Supreme Council member Han Jun-ho and Rep. Kim Woo-young of the DPK, both of whom will join him as envoys. Yonhap

President Lee Jae Myung has appointed Park Yong-man, the former chairman of the Doosan Group and the Korea Chamber of Commerce and Industry, to lead a special delegation to the United States focused on trade and economic issues.

The presidential office announced Thursday that Park was selected for his extensive experience in the business sector and his strong connections with leading figures in the global economy.

“Park, who previously headed Korea’s top business lobby, is well known in U.S. corporate circles and is expected to engage with them effectively,” said Woo Sang-ho, senior presidential secretary for political affairs.

Accompanying Park on the delegation are Han Jun-ho, a member of the Supreme Council of the ruling Democratic Party of Korea (DPK) and close aide to the president, and Rep. Kim Woo-young of the DPK.

The delegation’s role is not to negotiate specific policies, Woo said, but rather to articulate the new administration’s policy direction and foster rapport with U.S. counterparts amid continued trade friction.

“This delegation isn’t intended to solve ongoing issues,” said Woo. “Its goal is to outline the new administration’s approach and foster mutual understanding.”

The presidential office also addressed reports that Kim Chong-in, an economist and former interim leader of the opposition People Power Party, had once been considered for the role. Officials said Kim was consulted beforehand and expressed support for the appointment.

“Kim understood the reasoning and expressed his support,” Woo added.

The exact departure date of the delegation has yet to be confirmed. Officials said further details will be announced once schedules with U.S. counterparts have been finalized.