The South Korean government is reportedly considering Lim Gi-taek, the former Secretary General of the International Maritime Organization (IMO), and Hwang Jong-woo, a member of the Korea Maritime Foundation, as candidates for the Minister of Oceans and Fisheries. Both candidates are recognized not only for their ties to Busan, a city with significant maritime influence, but also for their extensive backgrounds in marine policy. Lim Gi-taek, who has had a distinguished career including becoming the first Korean to hold the secretary-general position at the IMO and serving as the CEO of Busan Port Authority, continues to shape maritime discourse as a professor at Korea Maritime University.

Hwang Jong-woo, who has built his career within the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries, has held several key positions including Director of Port Logistics Planning and Director of Maritime Safety, and is currently chairing the International Cooperation Committee within the Korea Maritime Institute. Both candidates come at a critical time following the resignation of Jeon Jae-soo and reflect the administration's commitment to appoint a minister from Busan, a move that President Lee Jae-myung has openly advocated.

This strategic selection emphasizes the importance of local expertise in managing maritime affairs, which is vital for a nation like South Korea, heavily reliant on shipping and maritime industries. The decision regarding the appointment is crucial, as it will influence the direction of maritime policies and initiatives amid ongoing developments in the maritime sector and the global shipping industry.