On the 28th, President Yoon officially appointed Park Eun-sik, who is currently the Deputy Chief of the Korea Forest Service, as the new Chief of the agency. Park is described as an expert with significant experience in various key roles within the organization, including as the Director of Forestry Industry Policy and International Forest Cooperation Director. This appointment is seen as a step towards reinforcing fire prevention capabilities and leading innovations within the service, as emphasized in a statement by Cheong Wa Dae spokesperson Kang Yu-jeong.

Born in 1970, Park holds degrees in Forest Resources from Seoul National University, where he also earned his master's and doctorate in the same field. He entered public service as part of the Technical Examination 36th session and has since held several important positions in the Korea Forest Service, including as the international forestry cooperation officer and the policy director. His appointment comes after the rapid dismissal of the previous chief, Kim In-ho, due to his involvement in a drunk driving incident on the previous week, leaving a significant gap in the leadership of the organization.

This recent change in leadership highlights the ongoing issues within the agency, especially regarding public trust and accountability following Kim's actions. Park's appointment may offer a fresh opportunity for the Korea Forest Service to regain the confidence of local stakeholders, including municipalities and environmental groups, particularly in managing forest fire risks and implementing sustainable forestry practices. His able communication skills are expected to help bridge the gap between various stakeholders, fostering better cooperation moving forward.