On Thursday, October 16th, the South Korean Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced that Lu Jae-hyun, son of the late South Korean former president Ro Tae-woo and the chairman of the East Asia Cultural Institute, will become the South Korean ambassador to China, becoming the first ambassador to China under the Lee Jae-myung government.
Lu Jae-hyun, aged 60, arrived in Beijing on the 16th afternoon to assume his position as the ambassador to China. His appointment comes at a crucial moment as Chinese President Xi Jinping is set to visit South Korea during the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit in the historic city of Gyeongju from October 31st to November 1st.
Upon assuming office, Lu Jae-hyun is expected to engage in coordinating and communicating with the Chinese side regarding Xi Jinping’s visit to South Korea and participation in the APEC summit, as reported by the South Korean news agency.
Lu Jae-hyun stated in a declaration on October 14th, “At this critical moment of rapidly changing international order, I deeply understand the significant responsibility and historical mission entrusted to me and sincerely appreciate the opportunity to serve my country given by the president.”
The position of South Korean ambassador to China has been vacant for about 9 months since the former ambassador, Chang Jae-ho, left office in January. Lu Jae-hyun’s appointment was approved at a cabinet meeting chaired by President Lee Jae-myung earlier this week.
Lu Jae-hyun’s father, Ro Tae-woo, served as the 13th president of South Korea and was a decorated retired military officer who played a crucial and controversial role in South Korea’s transition from authoritarian rule to democratic elections. He ultimately ended his political career after being convicted of treason and corruption charges, receiving a 17-year prison sentence.
South Korea’s Chosun Ilbo reported that the selection of Lu Jae-hyun as ambassador by the Lee Jae-myung government has drawn significant attention due to its historical symbolism and Seoul’s intentions to further develop relations with China, as Ambassador Lu’s father pursued a “Northern Diplomacy” policy.