President Moon Jae-in has nominated an outspoken critic of the country's top four conglomerates, or jaebeols, to lead the nation's trade watchdog.

Economics professor Kim Sang-jo told reporters Thursday he'll deal with the jaebeols more strictly, and promised to establish a fair trade order to protect small businesses and improve public livelihood.

Kim's reputation as an activist promoting corporate reform has earned him the nickname "jaebeol sniper" among South Koreans.

He was a key shaper of jaebeol reform pledges during President Moon's campaign.