President Jacob Zuma extends condolences to the Government and people of South Korea

Pretoria: South African President Jacob Zuma, today 19 August 2009, extended heartfelt condolences to the Government and people of South Korea following the death of former President Kim Dae-jung, on 18 August 2009. Former President Kim Dae-jung was the 15th President of South Korea.

President Jacob Zuma said: “On behalf of the South African Government and on my own behalf I wish to convey our deepest condolences to the Government and the people of South Korea, particularly the family of the former President, during these trying times in the political life of South Korea”.

“We acknowledge the efforts of former President Kim Dae-jung and his vision for the Korean people that led to him and the North Korean leader Kim Jong-il working together on a joint declaration they signed on June 15, 2000 paving the way for a brighter future for all Koreans and other peace-loving peoples of the world”, concluded President Zuma

For his efforts, former President Kim Dae-jung was awarded the Nobel peace prize in 2000, in recognition of his struggle as a pro-democracy campaigner as well as his vision in overcoming five decades of mistrust and hostility that led to the first Korean summit meeting.

For more information contact Nomfanelo Kota on 082 459 37 87

Issued by the Department of International Relations and Cooperation
Private Bag x152
Pretoria, 0002

19 August 2009