战略与国际研究中心-Impact-Player_-Kim-Kyou_1页_343kb

Impact Players: Kim Kyou-hyun Summary

Core Information

Kim Kyou-hyun is the newly appointed Senior Secretary to the President for Foreign Affairs and National Security at the Blue House, succeeding Ju Chul-ki. This appointment highlights his significant role in shaping South Korea's foreign and security policies.

Career Overview

Kim Kyou-hyun has had a long and distinguished career in South Korean diplomacy and government, with a focus on U.S. relations. Key positions include:

• First Deputy Director of National Security (2014 - 2015)
• Secretary-General for the National Security Council Secretariat (2014 - 2015)
• First Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs (March 2013 - February 2014)
• Deputy Minister for Political Affairs (May 2012 - March 2013)
• Ambassador for Performance Evaluation (February 2010 - April 2012)
• Special Advisor to the Minister of Foreign Affairs (December 2009 - January 2010)
• Director-General of the International Cooperation Bureau at the Ministry of National Defense (February 2006 - July 2007)

His diplomatic career began in 1980, with postings in the U.S. including:

• Minister for Political Affairs and Deputy Chief of Mission at the ROK embassy (2007 - 2009)
• Counselor (2002 - 2004)
• Second Secretary (1986)

He also served in various roles at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, such as:

• Director of North America Division 1 (2000 - 2002)
• Deputy Director-General of the North American Affairs Bureau (2004 - 2006)

Unique Background

Unlike many typical South Korean diplomats, Kim Kyou-hyun has a D.D.S. (Doctor of Dental Surgery) degree from Seoul National University's School of Dentistry, in addition to an M.A. in Public Administration from Harvard University. This unique combination of qualifications underscores his diverse skill set and intellectual background.

Why He's in the News

Kim's appointment as Senior Secretary to the President for Foreign Affairs and National Security occurred on October 19, when President Park Geun-hye replaced Ju Chul-ki. The decision came amid controversy over the ROK-U.S. agreement on the purchase of F-35 fighter jets and the U.S. refusal to transfer core technologies for the KF-X stealth fighter project.

This transition was accompanied by internal government reshuffling, with Cho Tae-yong being promoted to the position of First Deputy Director of National Security, and Lim Sung-nam taking over as First Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs.

What to Expect from Kim Kyou-hyun

Kim is considered one of the most experienced officials in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs dealing with U.S. relations. Although his public profile may not be high, he is well-connected and well-regarded within both Seoul and Washington policy circles.

His extensive experience in the Blue House, particularly in the roles of First Deputy Director of National Security and Secretary-General for the National Security Council Secretariat, has given him deep knowledge of the interactions between the Blue House, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the Ministry of National Defense. This familiarity positions him as a key point person for foreign governments dealing with South Korea.

Conclusion

Kim Kyou-hyun's appointment signals a shift in the South Korean foreign policy landscape, with a focus on U.S. relations and national security. His distinguished career, unique educational background, and strong institutional knowledge make him a significant impact player in shaping South Korea's strategic direction.