Three new policymakers join Lee's economic teamThe stalled consolidation of the financial industry is likely to gain momentum this year under new top regulator Kim Seok-dong, renowned for drive and problem-solving ability. President Lee Myung-bak on Friday named Kim, 57, chairman of the Financial Services Commission. He will take office on Monday. As a former director general and vice chairman of

Korea’s trade surplus reached a record $41.7 billion in 2010 as locally made products made solid inroads into overseas markets, a government report showed Saturday.The annual tally showed exports surging 28.6 percent on-year to $467.4 billion, with imports moving up 31.8 percent to $425.7 billion, the Ministry of Knowledge Economy said. The favorable trade balance for last year surpasses the previ