President Lee on Lee Haechan's Passing: "We Have Lost a Great Mentor... The Journey Toward Democracy and Peaceful Unification Will Continue"

On January 25, President Lee Jaemyung commented on the passing of Lee Haechan, the Executive Vice Chairperson of the National Unification Advisory Council, stating, "Today, the Republic of Korea has lost a great mentor in the history of democracy." He continued, "Just as a river, despite its twists and turns, ultimately flows into the sea, the journey toward democracy, peaceful unification, and balanced national development-which he so earnestly pursued-will continue into the future."

Yonhap News Agency

Through a post on social networking services (SNS) that day, President Lee expressed, "I cannot contain my grief at the news of his passing. On behalf of the Republic of Korea, I extend my deepest condolences to his bereaved family."

President Lee stated, "Executive Vice Chairperson Lee dedicated his entire life to upholding and expanding the values of democracy amid the turbulent tides of modern history. The spirit of a young man who fought for democracy was later refined into sophisticated policies at the heart of national governance. While never compromising his principles and convictions in the face of the era's challenges, he demonstrated outstanding leadership that harmonized stability and reform."

President Lee went on to say, "In particular, by presenting a new national vision of balanced regional development and implementing innovative policies that promoted the joint growth of the capital area and local regions, Executive Vice Chairperson Lee laid an important foundation for Korea's advancement as a developed nation. I reflect on his unwavering commitment to unification and his efforts to seek a path to peace."

President Lee concluded, "Words cannot express the regret of having to say farewell before we could realize the dreams we pursued together. I will long remember the precious political legacy he has left behind. I hope that Executive Vice Chairperson Lee may now lay down all his burdens and rest in eternal peace."