Philip Morris International Inc., the multinational tobacco group, said Wednesday it has appointed Chong Il-woo as managing director for the Korean unit.

Chong, 49, will oversee management and orchestrate the unit’s strategy and business, the company said.

Prior to the new post, Chong headed the Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand and Indochina operation for the U.S.-based conglomerate. He started his career in 1988 as a marketing officer for the group’s Asia division and worked also in Indonesia and Kazakhstan as executives.

“I’m glad to come back to my country and feeling more responsibility at this crucial time for the company as construction of its new plant is due to complete in the first half of next year,” Chong said in a statement.

“Based on experiences I’ve gained in many countries including Korea, I will focus on providing high-quality products and service for customers in the Korean market, which is gaining weight in the Philip Morris International’s business.”

The manufacturer of Marlboro, Parliament and Virginia Slim since last year has been pumping 190 billion won ($176.8 million) into the new facilities in Yangsan, South Gyeongsang Province, where its first factory was built in 2002.

By Shin Hyon-hee (heeshin@heraldcorp.com)