Retired Adm. Harry Harris, former head of U.S. Indo-Pacific Command on Oahu, was confirmed by the U.S. Senate to serve as the U.S. ambassador to South Korea, U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz said.

“I have known Harry Harris for many years in his service to the U.S. Navy. I trust his judgment and remain confident that he always has the best interest of the United States and Hawaii in his heart when he is interacting with our partners and allies in the Asia Pacific,” Schatz said in a news release.

In May, Harris stepped down from U.S. Pacific Command, which was renamed the same day as U.S. Indo- Pacific Command to reflect evolving priorities, including closer ties with India and a “great power” competition with China.