Former Seoul Mayor Lee Won-jong, 70, has been appointed chairman of Seoul Development Institute, an urban policy research institute in the capital.

The city-funded think tank is expected to undergo major reform of its organizational structure and research programs under the new chairman from next month, according to city officials.

Lee, a long-time local government chief, served three terms as governor of North Chung­cheong Province, first in 1992 and then from 1998-2006. He was also Seoul Mayor from 1993-1994.

Established in 1992 by Seoul Metropolitan Government, Seoul Development Institute has conducted extensive research in the fields of public administration, economy, tourism and the environment to help the city government formulate policies.

By Lee Woo-young  (wylee@heraldcorp.com)