Former South Korean Prime Minister Lee Hae Chan Dies In Vietnam

On January 25, 2026, the political world was shaken by the news of former South Korean Prime Minister Lee Hae Chan’s passing in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. The announcement, confirmed by both Vietnamese and South Korean officials, marked the end of a remarkable career that spanned decades and left an indelible mark on Korean politics. Lee, who was 73 at the time of his death, had traveled to Vietnam for official business and was serving as Vice Chairman of the Peace Unification Advisory Council (PUAC) at the time.

According to The Korea Herald and corroborated by Vietnamese news outlets, Lee Hae Chan collapsed at Tan Son Nhat International Airport in Ho Chi Minh City on January 23, 2026, just before he was scheduled to depart for a regional advisory committee meeting. Witnesses reported that he experienced breathing difficulties while waiting for his flight back to South Korea, prompting immediate medical intervention. He was swiftly transported to a local hospital, where doctors diagnosed him with a myocardial infarction—a severe heart attack. Despite the medical team’s best efforts, including the placement of a stent, Lee remained unconscious and ultimately passed away at 14:48 local time on January 25.

The Vietnamese Ministry of Foreign Affairs, led by spokesperson Pham Thu Hang, emphasized the close coordination between Vietnamese authorities and the South Korean delegation during Lee’s hospitalization. "Immediately after receiving the news, over the past days, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs closely coordinated with the People's Committee of Ho Chi Minh City and relevant agencies to provide the best possible medical conditions for Mr. Lee Hae Chan in Ho Chi Minh City. However, due to the severity of his illness, Mr. Lee Hae Chan passed away," Pham Thu Hang told reporters, as cited by Tuoi Tre Online. Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh and other Vietnamese leaders extended their heartfelt condolences to both the South Korean government and Lee’s family, underscoring the deep diplomatic ties between the two countries.

The Peace Unification Advisory Council, where Lee served as Vice Chairman, released a statement confirming his death and detailing the medical efforts made to save him. “Mr. Lee was diagnosed with a myocardial infarction and had a stent placed, but despite the best efforts of the local medical team, he remained unconscious and passed away at 14:48 (Vietnam time) on January 25,” the council stated, according to Yonhap News Agency. The council, an advisory body to the South Korean president, plays a crucial role in shaping bipartisan and national policy on democratic unification and peace—issues that Lee had championed throughout his career.

Lee Hae Chan’s political journey is nothing short of extraordinary. Born in 1952 in Cheongyang, South Chungcheong Province, he came of age during the turbulent 1970s—a period marked by authoritarian rule and political repression in South Korea. As a student at Seoul National University, Lee emerged as a prominent democratic activist, advocating for political reform and civil liberties at a time when such stances carried significant personal risk. His activism during these formative years set the tone for a life devoted to public service and democratic ideals.

Lee’s legislative career was equally impressive. He was elected to the National Assembly for seven consecutive terms, serving from the 13th through the 17th sessions, and then again in the 19th and 20th sessions. This unbroken streak earned him the nickname "King of By-Elections," a testament to his enduring popularity and political acumen. Throughout his tenure, Lee was known for his ability to navigate the complexities of South Korean politics, forging alliances across ideological divides and maintaining a reputation for integrity and competence.

His executive roles were no less significant. Lee served as South Korea’s Minister of Education from 1998 to 1999, where he oversaw critical reforms during a period of rapid social and economic change. He was later appointed Prime Minister from 2004 to 2006 under President Roh Moo Hyun, a fellow progressive and longtime ally. During his time as Prime Minister, Lee focused on policies aimed at social equity, education, and national reconciliation—issues that would remain central to his political philosophy.

Lee also led the Democratic Party in two separate terms, first in 2012 and then from 2018 to 2020. His leadership was marked by efforts to modernize the party and broaden its appeal, culminating in significant electoral successes. Notably, Lee was known for his close relationships with four of South Korea’s progressive presidents: Kim Dae Jung, Roh Moo Hyun, Moon Jae In, and the then-incumbent Lee Jae Myung. He served not only as a political ally but also as a trusted advisor, helping to shape the direction of South Korea’s center-left politics over several decades.

In October 2025, Lee was appointed Vice Chairman of the Peace Unification Advisory Council, reflecting his continued influence and commitment to national issues. The council, which advises the president on matters of democratic unification and peace with North Korea, is a key institution in South Korea’s ongoing efforts to achieve reconciliation on the Korean Peninsula. Lee’s appointment was widely seen as recognition of his diplomatic skill and deep understanding of inter-Korean relations.

Lee’s death has prompted an outpouring of grief and tributes from across the political spectrum in both South Korea and Vietnam. His contributions to education, democratic development, and inter-Korean peace have been widely acknowledged. The Vietnamese government’s prompt response and the condolences sent by Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh highlight the respect Lee commanded internationally and the strength of the relationship between Vietnam and South Korea.

Lee’s legacy is further underscored by his reputation for bridging political divides. He was known for his pragmatic approach to governance and his ability to work with leaders from various factions. This quality made him a valued advisor to presidents and a stabilizing force in times of political turbulence. His life story—from a student activist in the 1970s to a statesman at the highest levels of government—serves as a testament to the power of persistence, conviction, and public service.

As South Korea mourns one of its most influential modern leaders, the impact of Lee Hae Chan’s work will continue to resonate. His efforts toward democratic unification, educational reform, and bipartisan cooperation have left an enduring imprint on the nation’s political landscape. For many, Lee’s passing is not just the end of a career, but the closing of a chapter in South Korea’s ongoing journey toward democracy and peace.