SEOUL - The Republic of Korea's President Lee Myung-bak on Wednesday appointed a ruling party lawmaker as the new minister without portfolio, Lee's office said.
Ko Heung-kil of the Grand National Party was named the minister, filling the seat vacated by Lee Jae-oh in September last year.
A three-term lawmaker, Ko also worked as a journalist.
His extensive networks in both politics and media will serve as a communication channel linking the parliament and the government, the presidential office said in a statement.
The 68-year-old will take office following a parliamentary hearing.