New Ambassador

The rumors that Alexander Vershbow will be the next U.S. Ambassador to South Korea have been fully confirmed. Vershbow has little if any background in Korean issues, though he was involved in reshaping NATO, so there is the slightest possibility of his involvement in the redefinition of the U.S.-Korea defense relationship. However, Vershbow is notable for his ability to be blunt to the point of insulting, something that will be even more noticeable in a country like Korea. It makes one wonder if this was Washington’s intention in appointing someone who, at this stage in his career, seemed destined more for a position back home at State than off in the field.