Ri was the North Korean representative to the United Nations mission in Geneva in the 1980s.[2] Ri was the North Korean ambassador to Switzerland in the 1990s.[2] Before holding these posts he had worked in African embassies of North Korea. Ri was the vice-director of the Organization and Guidance Department in 2002.[3]
Ri was the Minister of Foreign Affairs of North Korea from April 2014 to May 2016.[4] He was appointed to the post in the first session of the 13th Supreme People's Assembly in 2014,[5] replacing Pak Ui-chun.[6] Outside observers hailed the appointment as the most important in the cabinet,[7] suggesting his close relationship with Kim Jong Un and Kim Yo-jong played part.[6] It was also suggested that this may indicate change in the traditionally weak role of the Foreign Minister in North Korea.[2]
In April 2014, Ri was also the first North Korean foreign minister to visit India in at least 25 years. He met with Indian foreign minister Sushma Swaraj to discuss North Korean nuclear program and regional security issues. Ri also met with Indian Vice President Hamid Ansari. It is also possible that Ri sought Indian economic aid, or increased trade. India had given 1 million U.S. dollars as emergency aid through World Food Program in 2011.[11][12]
He was replaced by Kim Hyong-jun in his diplomatic responsibilities between late 2019 and 2020, and removed from the Politburo and the State Affairs Commission.
Ri had been Kim Jong Il's classmate. During his career, Ri took care of many personal and financial affairs of Kim,[2] including his Swiss bank accounts.[17] Ri also guarded Kim's children:[2]Kim Jong Un, the present leader of North Korea, and Kim's sister Kim Yo-jong when the two were studying at an international school in Switzerland.[2] Ri received the Order of Kim Jong Il on 14 February 2012.[18]