| Choe Deok-sin | |
|---|---|
| Chosŏn'gŭl | 최덕신 |
| Hancha | 崔德新 |
| McCune–Reischauer | Ch'oe Tŏksin |
| Revised Romanization | Choe Deok-sin |
Choe Deok-sin (September 17, 1914 - November 14, 1989) was a South Korean Foreign Minister who later defected with his wife, Ryu Mi Yong, to North Korea.[1]
In 1936, Choe graduated from Republic of China Military Academy, and served as a Republic of China Army officer.[2] When World War II ended, Choe was promoted to colonel.[2] After the war Choe returned South Korea and entered Army Academy as a second lieutenant.[2] In 1949, Choe entered the United States Army Academy.[2] On 14 July 1950, Choe returned South Korea.[2] Choe served as a commanding general of 11th division under the United States IX Corps during Korean War.[2][3] His division did the Sancheong-Hamyang and Geochang massacres. After the military coup, from 1961 to 1963, Choe served as a Foreign Minister and Ambassador to West Germany.[1]
In 1986, Choe defected with his wife Ryu Mi Yong to North Korea.[4] Choe served as a chief of the central committee of Chondogyo religious movement.[4]
| Political offices | ||
|---|---|---|
| Preceded by Song Yo-chan |
Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade of South Korea 1961-1963 |
Succeeded by Gim Yong-sik |