Politicians and government officials in South Korea expressed sorrow over the passing of former Prime Minister Lee Hae-chan, whose body was brought back from Vietnam. The casket arrived at a funeral home in Seoul after being flown back on a Korean Air flight from Incheon International Airport. Lee, who held the position of executive vice chairperson of the Peaceful Unification Advisory Council, passed away in Ho Chi Minh City due to cardiac arrest.
A Korean Air flight transported Lee’s body, along with his family members and a group of ruling Democratic Party lawmakers who had traveled to Vietnam when he fell ill. The funeral service for Lee will span five days with government honors, respecting his family’s wishes and his societal contributions. Not designated as a state funeral, the service was attended by Prime Minister Kim Min-seok, National Assembly Speaker Woo Won-shik, senior officials, and politicians associated with Lee.
Lee, a former seven-term lawmaker, served as prime minister during the Roh Moo-hyun administration and was recently appointed as executive vice chairperson of the PUAC. He played a significant role in South Korea’s pro-democracy movement, engaging in politics through student activism and opposition efforts. Known for his close relationships with past liberal presidents and President Lee Jae Myung, Lee was recognized as a key political ally and adviser, earning him the moniker ‘kingmaker.’
Before the casket’s arrival at the funeral home, a brief memorial service was held at the airport, with honor guards escorting it to a hearse.
