Former Industry Minister Bang Moon-kyu is anticipated to be appointed as South Korea's new ambassador to Indonesia, according to diplomatic sources. This position has been vacant since July, following the departure of the previous ambassador, Lee Sang-deok, who was assigned to lead a state agency for overseas Koreans. Bang's appointment would underscore South Korea's commitment to strengthening ties with Indonesia, especially given the significance of minister-level appointments to such roles. Bang is expected to focus on enhancing cooperation between the two nations, particularly regarding the KF-21 fighter jet joint development project, which has faced challenges due to Indonesia's delayed payments. The project, valued at 8.1 trillion won ($6 billion), has seen South Korea's arms procurement agency agree to reduce Indonesia's contribution significantly. If appointed, Bang will likely play a crucial role in ensuring the project's progress. A seasoned government official, Bang previously held positions as vice minister of economy and finance and vice minister of health and welfare before briefly serving as industry minister.