Gyeongbuk Governor Lee Cheol-woo: "Late Seo Se-won's Friend, Smiling in Heaven"

Se Se-won Dies in Cambodia on the 20th
Former Support Speech for Governor Lee Cheol-woo

Lee Cheol-woo, Governor of Gyeongbuk Province, prayed for the repose of the late broadcaster Seo Se-won.

On the 23rd, Governor Lee posted on his Facebook under the title "Seo Se-won, my friend, may you smile even in heaven," sharing a photo taken with Seo.

Governor Lee began, "Comedian Seo Se-won came to support me when I ran for the 18th general election in Gimcheon in 2008, but he was investigated by the prosecution for campaigning without registering as a campaign speaker. We became close during that time, and last August he visited the Gyeongbuk Provincial Office to discuss exchange projects with Cambodia."

Gyeongbuk Province Governor Lee Cheol-woo revealed a photo taken with the late broadcaster Seo Se-won. [Image source=Governor Lee's Facebook capture]

He continued, "He said he had established himself to some extent in Cambodia and showed confidence by saying he could arrange a meeting with the Prime Minister during a visit to Cambodia. In fact, he was preparing for a business trip to Cambodia this August. Receiving such sudden sad news is unbelievable and deeply heartbreaking," he expressed his feelings.

He added, "He brought much laughter to the world, so I believe he will create a sea of laughter in heaven as well. I pray for the repose of my dear friend Seo Se-won," he said.

Seo was once accused of violating election laws along with actor Hyun Seok during the 18th general election in 2008. He was charged with giving a support speech without prior registration despite not being a registered speaker at a public speech event for Lee, who was running as the Grand National Party candidate in Gimcheon. At the time, Lee’s side explained that the failure to register on time was due to the continuous replacement of speakers during the process.

Seo, who had been suffering from diabetes, passed away on the morning of the 20th while receiving an IV drip at a Korean hospital in Phnom Penh, Cambodia. His family, including his daughter Seo Dong-joo, arrived locally on the 21st and are reported to be discussing funeral arrangements.