Finance minister expresses intention to step down

Han Duck-soo, South Korea's top economic policymaker, said Friday he has informed President Roh Moo-hyun of his intention to step down.

Han confirmed remarks by his spokesman earlier in the day that he forwarded his position to the presidential office several days ago to clear the way for Roh to pick the most qualified candidate to replace him.

"The situation has changed and I felt there was a need to give the president a free hand on this matter," the official said in his meeting with reporters. He added, without going into detail, that even if a replacement is named, the economic policy direction of the country would not be affected.

"Policies are formulated on an inter-ministerial level that cannot be easily changed," the official pointed out.

Han, who took the post in March 2005, said he expected the presidential office will ask parliament to speed up the process of approving a new finance minister. Under revised rules, parliament can hold a hearing to give its views on Cabinet-level appointments.

Seoul, June 30 (Yonhap news)