Seoul: Former South Korean Prime Minister Lee Hae-chan has died at the age of 73 while on a business trip to Vietnam, officials have confirmed. The senior vice president of the Peaceful Unification Advisory Council (PUAC) passed away at a hospital in Ho Chi Minh City after suffering cardiac arrest.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Lee experienced health issues prior to his departure for Vietnam, showing flu-like symptoms. His condition worsened, and he was scheduled to return home on Friday. However, he required emergency medical attention after experiencing shortness of breath at Tan Son Nhat International Airport. Lee suffered cardiac arrest during transfer to the hospital and again while at the hospital, where he underwent a stent insertion procedure but did not survive.
The PUAC has announced that Lee's remains will be transported to South Korea late Monday, with arrival expected at Incheon International Airport early Tuesday. A memorial altar will be set up at Seoul National University Hospital. Discussions regarding Lee's funeral arrangements are currently underway between his family and relevant authorities.
Lee Hae-chan had a distinguished political career, serving as a seven-term lawmaker and as prime minister during the Roh Moo-hyun administration from 2004 to 2006. He was a prominent figure in South Korea's pro-democracy movement and held various significant roles, including education minister under the Kim Dae-jung administration. Lee was closely associated with four progressive presidents, earning the nickname "kingmaker" for his advisory roles.
His tenure as education minister was marked by significant educational reforms known as the "Lee Hae-chan Generation." As a key political figure, he supported Moon Jae-in's presidential campaigns and led the ruling party in 2018. He had publicly supported President Lee Jae Myung in the most recent presidential election.
Condolences have poured in from across South Korea's political landscape. The ruling Democratic Party (DP) has expressed deep sorrow at his passing, with spokesperson Park Soo-hyun acknowledging Lee's pivotal role in the nation's democratic journey. DP Chairman Jung Chung-rae highlighted Lee's lifelong dedication to democracy and human rights.
The Democr Party plans to observe a mourning period and establish memorial halls nationwide to honor Lee's legacy. Former President Moon Jae-in paid tribute to Lee on social media, reflecting on their shared commitment to democracy and state affairs.
The main opposition People Power Party (PPP) and Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon also extended their condolences, recognizing Lee's substantial contributions to South Korea's political history.