S. Korean President replaces 8 minister-level officials, names new ambassador to U.S.

He also picked Lee Soo-hyuck, a diplomat-turned-lawmaker, as new ambassador to the United States, as Seoul has come under growing pressure to increase its financial support for the U.S. Forces Korea and play a bigger role in regional and international security.

The reshuffle affected eight minister-grade officials, including the justice minister, according to Cheong Wa Dae.

Cho Kuk, former senior presidential secretary on civil affairs, has been nominated to lead the Ministry of Justice.

Rep. Lee of the ruling Democratic Party will replace Ambassador Cho Yoon-je serving in Washington D.C.

Jeong Se-hyun, former unification minister, has been chosen as new deputy chair of the presidential National Unification Advisory Council.