SEOUL - SOUTH Korean President Lee Myung Bak has named former Prime Minister Han Duck Soo as new ambassador to the United States, an official said on Sunday.

Mr Han, 59, a Harvard-educated technocrat, served as finance minister and in other key economic posts under previous governments.

He rose to prime minister, the country's second-highest post, under the administration of Mr Lee's predecessor, Mr Roh Moo Hyun.

The ambassador-designate is a supporter of a free trade accord with the United States that is awaiting legislative approval in both nations.

An official at the presidential office disclosed Mr Han's nomination, but spoke on condition of anonymity because the country has not yet begun the diplomatic process of seeking Washington's consent to the designation.

The presidential office also announced that Mr Lee had named new police and spy agency chiefs.

Home affairs Minister Won Sei Hoon was appointed head of the National Intelligence Service, and Seoul police chief Kim Seok Ki was promoted to head of the National Police Agency, the office said.

The office did not give a clear reason for the reshuffle, only saying that it is an expression of Mr Lee's 'intention to revive the economy and launch reforms'.

South Korean leaders often use personnel appointments to regain public confidence. Mr Lee's approval ratings have been low amid the economic slump.

The two appointments will undergo parliamentary hearings, but Mr Lee has the power to override a decision.

Yonhap news agency said Mr Lee is considering a broader reshuffle that could affect five or six Cabinet posts, including the finance minister.

The presidential office declined to comment. -- AP