Jeon Jae Su Nominated as Minister of Oceans and Fisheries... Will Busan Relocation Gain Momentum?

Jeon Jae Su, member of the Democratic Party of Korea. Photo by Yoon Dong Joo doso7@

On June 23, President Lee Jaemyung nominated Jeon Jae Su, a member of the Democratic Party of Korea, as the candidate for Minister of Oceans and Fisheries. As a three-term senior lawmaker with extensive experience in both the Blue House and the National Assembly, Jeon is considered a political and policy expert. There are expectations that the relocation of the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries to Busan will accelerate under his leadership.

Jeon, who was born in Uiryeong, South Gyeongsang Province, graduated from Gudeok High School in Busan and earned a degree in history from Dongguk University, where he also completed his master's in political science. During the Roh Moo Hyun administration, he served as an administrator in the Blue House’s National Situation Room, the Office of the Senior Secretary for Economic Affairs, and the Second Secretary’s Office. He also worked as a policy advisor to the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance and Economy. Subsequently, he secured consecutive victories in the 20th, 21st, and 22nd general elections, establishing himself as a three-term senior member of the National Assembly.

Within political circles, this appointment is being interpreted as a signal that the government intends to finalize the relocation of the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries to Busan. Jeon, whose constituency is in Busan, has consistently emphasized the necessity of the move, stating, "Over 90% of the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries’ work is based in Busan. If we can reclaim the responsibilities that were transferred to the Ministry of the Interior and Safety and the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs, and bring them back to Busan, the contribution to the local community will be significantly greater."

If Jeon is ultimately appointed as minister, preparing a relocation roadmap, as well as addressing organizational integration and local settlement issues, are expected to be major tasks.

The government plans to finalize Jeon's appointment after a confirmation hearing in the National Assembly.