Park Eun-sik Appointed New Head of Korea Forest Service

Seoul, South Korea – President Lee Jae Myung has appointed Park Eun-sik as the new head of the Korea Forest Service, according to announcements made on February 28, 2026 and . Park, previously the vice chief of the agency, replaces Kim In-ho, who was dismissed last week following a drunk driving incident.

Swift Appointment Amid Wildfire Concerns

The appointment comes as South Korean authorities increase efforts to prevent and contain wildfires in the central and southern regions of the country . Presidential spokesperson Kang Yu-jung emphasized the importance of a swift appointment given the public safety implications of the role .

Park Eun-sik’s Experience

Park Eun-sik has held various key positions within the Korea Forest Service and recently led on-site firefighting efforts in South Gyeongsang Province . He is considered well-equipped to strengthen forest fire prevention and response capabilities, as well as drive innovation within the agency .

Previous Leadership Change

Kim In-ho’s dismissal on February 21, 2026, created the vacancy filled by Park’s appointment . Kim was booked by police on charges of drunk driving, leading to his removal from office.