South Korea Pays Tribute to Former PM Lee Hae-chan Following His Death

South Korea observed a solemn day of mourning as politicians and government officials paid their respects to former Prime Minister Lee Hae-chan, whose body was repatriated from Vietnam, where he passed away earlier this week. A memorial altar displaying his portrait was set up at Seoul National University Hospital in central Seoul.

President Lee Jae Myung, Prime Minister Kim Min-seok, National Assembly Speaker Woo Won-shik, former President Moon Jae-in, and opposition leader Jang Dong-hyeok sent condolence wreaths, reflecting the nationwide respect for Lee’s decades-long service to the country, according to Yonhap News Agency.

Lee’s casket arrived earlier in the day at the hospital, hours after being flown back aboard a Korean Air flight to Incheon International Airport. A brief memorial service was held at the airport, with honour guards transporting the casket to a hearse, before it reached the funeral home.

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Lee, who was serving as executive vice chairperson of the Peaceful Unification Advisory Council (PUAC), died in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, on Sunday following cardiac arrest. He served as Prime Minister during the Roh Moo-hyun administration from 2004 to 2006 and was a seven-term lawmaker known for his pivotal role in South Korean politics.

Described as a "kingmaker" for his close ties with former liberal Presidents Kim Dae-jung, Roh Moo-hyun, Moon Jae-in, and current President Lee Jae Myung, Lee played a significant role as a political strategist and advisor. He was also an active participant in South Korea’s pro-democracy movement, entering politics through student activism during the military regimes.

The five-day funeral service, scheduled to continue through Saturday, will be conducted with government honours but not as a state funeral, in accordance with his family’s wishes. Leaders and senior officials, including Prime Minister Kim and Speaker Woo, were present to receive the casket and pay tribute, highlighting Lee’s enduring legacy in strengthening South Korea’s democratic foundations.

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