Kang Hoonshik on Lee Haechan's Passing: "He Dedicated His Life to a Great Dream... Every Path Became History"

On January 25, Kang Hoonshik, Chief Presidential Secretary, commented on the passing of former Prime Minister Lee Haechan, stating, "Former Prime Minister Lee dedicated his entire life to the great dream of democratization in Korea and the establishment of a democratic national party," and added, "Every path he walked in pursuit of that dream has become history."

Yonhap News Agency

On his social networking service (SNS) account that day, Kang said, "Since becoming Chief Secretary, there have been many moments when the words of the former Prime Minister suddenly come to mind," expressing his thoughts as above.

Kang continued, "(Former Prime Minister Lee) was more devoted than anyone to contemplating reality, guided by the conviction that politics must ultimately be about improving people's lives," and added, "'Learn values from history and find methods in reality'-this single sentence that defined the Prime Minister's life is one I will also keep close to my heart."

He went on to say, "At the end of his final memoir, he wrote that he could now begin to understand former President Kim Daejung's words, 'Life is beautiful and history progresses.' As I reflect on these sentiments, I try to soothe my sorrow and sense of loss," and concluded, "I sincerely hope he may rest in peace."