President Park Geun-hye on Monday named senior secretary for political affairs Lee Jung-hyun as senior secretary for public relations.

Lee replaces Lee Nam-ki, who resigned last month to take responsibility over the sexual assault case involving then-presidential spokesman Yoon Chang-jung.

“I understand that (Lee) was named because the most important role of senior secretary for public relations is in directly communicating with the president,” spokeswoman Kim Haing said during a press briefing.

Lee, who hails from Gokseong, South Jeolla Province, has been considered one of Park’s loyalist aides since Park’s failed presidential bid in 2007.

His close relations with Park and enthusiastic communication style earned him a position as communication team chief during Park’s presidential campaign last year.

Kim explained no decision had yet been made on who will replace Lee as the senior secretary for political affairs. The seat of spokesman left vacant by Yoon also remains unfilled.

Meanwhile, President Park will make a state visit to Britain in the fall upon the invitation of Queen Elizabeth II, Cheong Wa Dae said.

“This year marks the 130th anniversary of diplomatic ties between Korea and Britain, and President Park’s state visit will represent the close relations between the two countries,” Kim said.

Kim explained that the early announcement was in consideration of British custom and their wish to release the list of state guests before the 60th anniversary of the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II on June 4.

Park may visit other countries in Europe upon her visit, Kim added.

By Lee Joo-hee
(jhl@heraldcorp.com)