Lee Jae-myung's Elegy "Causing Mother Unbearable Pain Including Family History"

The late Mrs. Gu Homyeong, mother of Lee Jae-myung, Governor of Gyeonggi Province (right), during her lifetime

[Asia Economy (Suwon) = Reporter Lee Young-gyu] Lee Jae-myung, Governor of Gyeonggi Province, posted a heartfelt 'lament for a mother' on Facebook as he bid farewell to his mother. Lee has often spoken about his family history whenever he had the chance, referring to his mother as 'my sky.'

On the 14th, the second day of the funeral for his mother, Mrs. Gu Homyeong, Lee expressed his gratitude on Facebook, saying, "I deeply thank everyone who saw off my mother on her long journey after a short trip and comforted us bereaved family members who are struggling with earthly ties."

He also stated, "I cannot neglect the occasion of parting with the physical ties and want to fulfill my duties and respect as a child, but there are over 30 people under my mother's care, making the funeral home crowded," adding, "Even if you come, we politely decline condolences as there is no time for more than a brief eye greeting, no meal service, and no time to stay briefly, hold hands, and exchange a few words in this chaotic situation."

However, most of Lee’s Facebook post on that day was about the emotional pain his mother must have endured because of him.

He lamented deeply, saying, "Because of me, our private family matters were exposed to the public, and my mother had to helplessly watch the bitter family feud with my brother Lee Jae-seon, causing unbearable pain as a woman and as a mother. Until her last moments, she could not shake off worries and concerns, and I committed an unforgivable filial impiety that weighed heavily even on her final steps to heaven."

He added, "At this moment when I say my last goodbye to my mother, I want to be free from all the storms of the world. I believe my mother, who endured so many tragedies that she should not have had to experience, feels the same."

Lee concluded his post by saying, "I am once again grateful that many people have embraced the pain of a sky falling with all their hearts and waved their hands to my mother as she embarks on the path of eternity, allowing her to leave lightly, free from all worldly worries and concerns."

Lee’s mother had been staying at his younger sibling’s house but her health rapidly deteriorated, and she was receiving treatment in the intensive care unit at Gunpo Jisaem Hospital. She passed away around 3:30 p.m. on the 13th.