Lee Hee-ho, the widow of former South Korean President Kim Dae-jung passed away Monday after a battle with cancer.
She not only played a crucial role in devising policies for women and the marginalized,... but also exerted all her efforts to enhance relations between the two Koreas.
Kim Hyo-sun reports.
Lee Hee-ho, the wife of former late President Kim Dae-jung died Monday evening at the age of 96.
She had been hospitalized lately while battling liver cancer.
During her life, Lee stood at the forefront of safeguarding women's rights in South Korea,... as the country's first generation female activist.
She was also a supportive companion and adviser to former President Kim,... well known for his so-called sunshine policy of engagement with North Korea.
She stood beside him while he ran for office for four times,... and supported him throughout his pro-democracy movement.
Even on the day of her husband's death,... Lee spoke of democracy.
"I sincerely hope we live with the conscience of acting. This was my husband's dying wish."
Lee also exerted efforts to improve inter-Korean relations,... serving as the head of the Kim Dae Jung Peace Center,... which was founded by her husband to promote inter-Korean reconciliation and world peace.
In 2000,... she accompanied her husband to Pyeongyang for the first historic summit between the two Koreas,... and served as special envoy to the North.
"I believe we shouldn't pass down the pain of division to future generations."
President Moon Jae-in mourned Lee's death,... referring to her as a great person.
He posted Twitter and Facebook messages on Monday,... immediately after Lee's passing.
While Lee was in critical condition,... she was with her family until the moment of her death.
"Her family gathered to sing hymns. She also sang along with them while they said, 'Thank you. We respect you, and We love you.'"
A five-day public funeral will be organized for Lee,... and she will be buried at Seoul National Cemetery,... where her husband was laid to rest a decade ago.
Kim Hyo-sun, Arirang News.
