14TH NATIONAL CONGRESS OF THE COMMUNIST PARTY OF VIETNAM

Former South Korean Prime Minister Lee Hae Chan passes away in HCMC

Nathan Nguyen

Jan 25, 2026 / 10:14 PM

Vietnam expressed deep sorrow over his passing and will coordinate with the South Korean side on necessary arrangements.

THE HANOI TIMES — Vietnam on January 25 confirmed that former South Korean Prime Minister Lee Hae Chan had passed away while receiving medical treatment in Ho Chi Minh City.

Hình ảnh 1 — *Former South Korean Prime Minister Lee Hae Chan dies in Ho Chi Minh City. Photo: Chosun*

Speaking to reporters, Pham Thu Hang, the spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, said that over the past few days, the ministry had worked closely with the Ho Chi Minh City People’s Committee and relevant agencies to ensure the best possible medical care for former South Korean Prime Minister Lee Hae Chan.

"However, due to the severity of his illness, Mr. Lee Hae Chan has passed away," said Hang.

Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh and other Vietnamese leaders have sent condolences to the South Korean government and Mr. Lee Hae Chan’s family.

The spokesperson said Vietnam was deeply saddened by his death and would continue coordinating with the South Korean side on necessary arrangements in accordance with diplomatic practice.

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