South Korean President Lee Myung-bak has dismissed a government minister in charge of North Korean affairs, in what presidential advisers say is a minor cabinet reshuffle aimed at revitalizing the ruling conservative party ahead of 2012 elections.

Rumors of the move to replace hardline Unification Minister Hyun In-taek had circulated in recent days, as ruling Grand National Party leaders called for a new minister to help improve Seoul's tense relationship with the communist North.

South Korea's Yonhap news agency said Mr. Lee immediately nominated his former chief-of-staff, Yu Woo-ik, to the vacated post. Yu had previously served as South Korea's ambassador to China.

Yonhap says Yu and three other new appointees will be formally appointed after parliamentary confirmation hearings.