Seoul: Unification Minister Chung Dong-young extended his condolences Tuesday over the death of Kim Yong-nam, former titular head of North Korea, noting his contributions to the development of inter-Korean ties.

According to Yonhap News Agency, North Korea's state media reported that Kim, who was the chairman of the Standing Committee of the Supreme People's Assembly, passed away from multiple organ failure related to cancer. He had been battling colorectal cancer since June of the previous year.

"I express my condolences over the death of Kim," Chung stated in a message released to the press on behalf of the government. He also offered solace to Kim's bereaved family and North Korean officials. The minister highlighted Kim's visit to South Korea as the head of North Korea's delegation to the 2018 PyeongChang Winter Olympics, acknowledging its role in facilitating inter-Korean dialogue at the time.

Chung further recalled meeting Kim twice in Pyongyang, in 2005 and 2018, where they engaged in "meaningful discussions" on peace and the advancement of inter-Korean relations. A ministry official explained that the government issued the condolences in the minister's name rather than sending them directly to North Korea, as communication lines with Pyongyang remain closed.

Kim had been a key figure in North Korea's diplomacy for decades, serving under the regimes of national founder Kim Il-sung, late leader Kim Jong-il, and current leader Kim Jong-un. For 21 years, beginning with Kim Jong-il's rule, he held the position of chairman of the parliamentary standing committee, effectively acting as the head of state in a ceremonial capacity.

During Kim Jong-il's leadership, Kim Yong-nam managed most summit diplomacy on behalf of the leader, who preferred to avoid external affairs, thus becoming North Korea's representative on the international stage. North Korea announced that a state funeral for Kim Yong-nam would be held on Tuesday, with his coffin set to be moved from the funeral facility on Wednesday for burial. North Korean leader Kim Jong-un paid his respects at Kim's bier early Tuesday, expressing "deep condolences," as reported by state media.