Seoul: President Lee Jae Myung has appointed Kim Hyun-ji, his secretary for general affairs and a longtime aide, as his personal secretary in a reshuffle at the presidential office, the office said Monday. Yoon Ki-chun, previously the personal secretary to first lady Kim Hea Kyung, will now assume the role of secretary for general affairs, overseeing the office's budget and operations.

According to Yonhap News Agency, the shake-up occurs amid requests from the main opposition People Power Party for Kim to appear at a parliamentary audit next month. This has led to speculation that the reassignment could potentially shield her from questioning, as personal secretaries are generally exempt from such sessions. However, the presidential office has rejected these claims, asserting that the reshuffle is unrelated to the National Assembly audit.

A senior official emphasized, "Regardless of her position, Secretary Kim has said she will appear in accordance with the rules if the National Assembly decides." This statement was made to reporters on background, clarifying the administration's stance on the matter.

In addition to Kim's appointment, other changes include Kim Nam-joon, who previously served as Lee's personal secretary, being named a second spokesperson. He will serve alongside the current spokesperson, Kang Yu-jung, in an effort to strengthen public communication, as stated by the presidential chief of staff, Kang Hoon-sik, in a written briefing.

Kim Hyun-ji is regarded as one of Lee's closest confidants, having served as his chief secretary during his tenure as a lawmaker and as press secretary when Lee was governor of Gyeonggi Province.