KCNA: North Korea names new military chief

PYONGYANG, North Korea (AP) — The official Korean Central News Agency says North Korea has named a new military chief.

Hyon Yong Chol was named vice marshal of the Korean People's Army, the official news agency said early Tuesday morning.

The appointment was made by the Central Military Commission of the Workers' Party of Korea and the National Defense Commission of North Korea, the agency said.

He replaces Ri Yong Ho, a guardian figure who had appeared often at the side of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un.

North Korea's official media reported Monday that Ri had been dismissed from several senior posts due to illness.