A ROK Air Force general will now being taking over as the ROK Defense Minister. This is the first time a ROK Air Force veteran will be defense minister in 24 years. I wonder if this pick is to counterbalance the influence of the ROK Army that may not be as supportive of removing South Korean defenses along the DMZ as President Moon may like?:
South Korean President Moon Jae-in on Thursday nominated the head of the Joint Chiefs of Staff as defense minister.
Jeong Kyeong-doo, 58, a former fighter pilot, would take over the ministry as the government seeks to reduce tension and build trust with North Korea, and at a time of uncertainty over relations with main ally the United States.
Jeong, who is set to replace incumbent Song Young-moo, does not need parliament’s approval but must attend a hearing and answer legislators’ questions.
He would be South Korea’s first defense minister with an air force background in 24 years, media reported. [Reuters]
You can read more at the link.