The resignation of Foreign Minister Yoon Young Kwan has raised concerns about South Korea's foreign policy. His replacement by veteran diplomat Ban Ki Moon should help allay some of those fears. There will be no abrupt shifts in Seoul. Nevertheless, the shuffle is an indication of the changes at work in South Korea and the need for that country's friends and allies to recognize them and adjust their relationships accordingly.
Mr. Yoon resigned Jan. 15 after senior Foreign Ministry officials criticized President Roh Moo Hyun's advisers for being anti-American and pro-North Korean, likening them to "the Taliban." Mr. Yoon stepped down to take responsibility for the statements. Mr. Roh named Mr. Ban, a veteran diplomat and his chief foreign policy adviser, to replace him, a move that promises continuity in South Korean foreign policy.
Mr. Roh was elected after pledging to adopt a more "equal" relationship with the United States. At times, his campaign exploited anti-Americanism. Fears of a break with the U.S. were assuaged when Mr. Yoon was appointed. Since then, the president has steered toward the center, and relations with the U.S. have not been as stormy as feared. Addressing concerns that Mr. Yoon's departure would herald a shift in policy, Mr. Ban stressed the importance of ties with the U.S. and said there would be no change in the bilateral relationship.