Cabinet changes said coming over naval gun battle

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Cabinet changes said coming over naval gun battle

President Kim Dae-jung is expected to replace some of his cabinet ministers next week, including Prime Minister Lee Han-dong, Defense Minister Kim Dong-shin and Culture and Tourism Minister Namkung Jin.

The Blue House chief of staff, Park Jie-won said that nothing has yet been decided. "But we are currently discussing views on various issues," Mr. Park said.

A senior government official, speaking on the usual condition of anonymity, said that the reshuffle may begin anytime after Saturday when the defense minister briefs the president.

The leading contenders for the prime minister position are said to be former Seoul Mayor Goh Kun and former Prime Minister Lee Hong-koo.

Mr. Kim will proceed by first naming the new prime minister, who must be confirmed by the Assembly. The new prime minister would recommend the other ministerial changes.

Prime Minister Lee is reportedly being replaced because of charges that he responded poorly to the naval skirmish between the two Koreas while the president was in Japan for the World Cup championship game, even though the battle took place before the president left Korea. But Mr. Lee is also said to be interested in running for a seat in the Assembly in by-elections scheduled for Aug. 8, as is Mr. Namkung, the culture minister.

Defense Minister Kim Dong-shin is considered a sure bet for replacement; both major political parties have demanded his scalp because of the casualties sustained by the navy. The Blue House is reportedly also considering naming new justice and home affairs ministers -- the performance of both has also come under fire -- but also to respond to Roh Moo-hyun's demand that the government form a "neutral cabinet."

The administration had resisted a cabinet change, but apparently relented because of public anger over the skirmish.

by Chun Young-gi

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