President Lee Expresses Condolences and Tribute on Facebook
1995 Murayama Statement Included Remorse and Apology for Colonial Rule
"Noble Intentions, Contributions to the Development of Korea-Japan Relations"
President Lee Jaemyung expressed his condolences and paid tribute upon hearing the news that former Japanese Prime Minister Tomiichi Murayama passed away at the age of 101.
On October 17, President Lee wrote on Facebook, "Former Prime Minister Murayama dedicated himself to politics for the Japanese people, while also making special efforts for reconciliation and coexistence with neighboring countries." He added, "On behalf of the people of the Republic of Korea, I express my deepest condolences and respect."
President Lee continued, "In particular, in 1995, on the 50th anniversary of the end of World War II, former Prime Minister Murayama issued a statement as Prime Minister, expressing deep remorse and an apology for past history. This statement resonated deeply and moved not only the Japanese people but also those of neighboring countries." He added, "We will long remember the noble intentions of former Prime Minister Murayama, who faced history and sought to move toward the future, as well as his achievements and dedication to the development of Korea-Japan relations."
Former Prime Minister Murayama passed away of old age on this day at a hospital in Oita City, Oita Prefecture, Kyushu, surrounded by his family. During his tenure as Prime Minister in 1995, he issued the 'Murayama Statement,' which explicitly expressed remorse and an apology for Japan's colonial rule and aggression against neighboring countries. The statement was highly regarded for going further by referring to past colonial rule as "aggression" and demonstrating a more advanced apology and historical awareness.
Former Prime Minister Murayama was born in 1924 in Oita Prefecture as the son of a fisherman. After working with a public servants' union and serving in local assemblies, he entered national politics in 1972 when he was elected to the House of Representatives as a candidate from the Socialist Party. In 1994, with the launch of a coalition cabinet of the Liberal Democratic Party, Socialist Party, and New Party Sakigake, he became the second Socialist Party member in history to serve as Prime Minister. In 1999, he also visited North Korea as the head of a nonpartisan delegation.
On the occasion of his 100th birthday last year, he released a message stating, "I hope Japan will remain a peaceful country," and added, "I find happiness in living without overexertion and in a natural manner."
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