Seoul: President Lee Jae Myung on Sunday appointed special envoys to the European Union (EU), France, Britain, and India, the presidential office announced, as part of broader diplomatic outreach efforts. Lee’s strategic appointments aim to bolster South Korea’s international partnerships and address global challenges collaboratively.

According to Lao News Agency, former Environment Minister Yoon Yeo-joon, renowned for his strategic acumen, has been designated as the head of the delegation to the EU. Yoon’s team is set to depart for Europe on Monday, with plans to visit the EU headquarters in Belgium. The delegation’s primary objectives include reinforcing the strategic partnership between South Korea and the EU and discussing expanded cooperation in climate change and cutting-edge science and technology sectors.

In a similar diplomatic mission, former Justice Minister Kang Gum-sil will travel to France on Tuesday as a special envoy. Kang’s delegation aims to enhance collaboration in artificial intelligence and the defense industry, coinciding with the celebration of the 140th anniversary of diplomatic relations between South Korea and France.

Rep. Choo Mi-ae of the ruling Democratic Party (DP) is appointed to lead a delegation to Britain, with both Choo and former Prime Minister Kim Boo-kyum, who will head to India, scheduled to leave South Korea on Wednesday. Choo’s delegation will engage with British governmental and parliamentary officials to emphasize the significance of bilateral defense cooperation and joint efforts on climate change. Meanwhile, Kim’s team will focus on strengthening defense cooperation and fostering cultural and human resources exchanges with India.

Speculation surrounds potential future envoys, with Kim Chong-in, a former interim leader of the main opposition People Power Party, being considered for the United States. Former Prime Minister Chung Sye-kyun is reportedly the leading candidate for Japan, while former National Assembly Speaker Park Byeong-seug is likely to be appointed to China. Additionally, ex-parliamentary speaker Kim Jin-pyo is a candidate for Australia, and DP Rep. Park Jie-won is under consideration for Poland.

The presidential office, through Woo Sang-ho, presidential secretary for political affairs, revealed last week that consultations are ongoing with 14 countries regarding the dispatch of special envoys.