Choe Deok-sin (September 17, 1914 – November 14, 1989) was a South Korean Foreign Minister who later defected with his wife, Ryu Mi Yong, to North Korea. In 1936, Choe graduated from Republic of China Military Academy, and served as a Republic of China Army officer. When World War II ended, Choe was promoted to colonel. After the war Choe returned South Korea and entered Army Academy as a second lieutenant. In 1949, Choe entered the United States Army Academy. On 14 July 1950, Choe returned South Korea. Choe served as a commanding general of 11th division under the United States IX Corps during Korean War. His division carried out the Sancheong-Hamyang and Geochang massacres. After the military coup, from 1961 to 1963, Choe served as a Foreign Minister and Ambassador to West Germany.