North Korea announced the death of a senior statesman on Tuesday. This veteran diplomat dies at age 94 after a long illness. Specifically, Kim Yong-nam served as the nation’s nominal head of state. Furthermore, he led Pyongyang’s diplomatic efforts for more than two decades. Consequently, his passing marks the end of a significant political era.
State media reported his death from multiple organ failure. Importantly, this condition resulted from cancer-related complications. Additionally, he had battled colorectal cancer since June last year. Therefore, the government decided to hold a state funeral. The ceremony will take place on Tuesday.
Leader Kim Jong-un personally expressed deep condolences. For instance, he visited the bier early Tuesday morning. Moreover, senior party and government officials accompanied him. This veteran diplomat dies after sixty years of public service. Notably, his career spanned the rules of all three Kim leaders.
Kim Yong-nam held many key diplomatic posts. Initially, he served as foreign minister under founder Kim Il-sung. Later, he became chairman of the parliament. In this role, he acted as the nominal head of state. Subsequently, he represented North Korea on the world stage for years.
His most notable moment came in 2018. At that time, he led the North’s delegation to the PyeongChang Olympics. Interestingly, this visit included Kim Yo-jong, the leader’s sister. Furthermore, the delegation held talks with then South Korean President Moon Jae-in. Ultimately, this trip helped open a period of inter-Korean dialogue.
South Korea’s Unification Minister extended condolences hours later. Specifically, he acknowledged Kim’s contributions to inter-Korean relations. Meanwhile, the government issued a formal message to the press. However, communication lines with Pyongyang remain officially closed. As a result, they could not send condolences directly.
Kim was born into a family of anti-Japanese patriots. First, he attended Kim Il Sung University. Then, he also studied abroad in Moscow, Russia. Thereafter, he began his long career in diplomacy. This veteran diplomat dies after retiring from service in 2019.
State media praised his revolutionary contributions. For example, they highlighted his extraordinary achievements for the party. Finally, his life wrapped up at the age of 94. Currently, the state funeral committee includes Kim Jong-un as chairman. Additionally, other senior officials will also participate in the rites.
His death removes a familiar face from international politics. Previously, he was a constant presence during turbulent times. Now, the state funeral signifies his important status. Indeed, the nation now mourns this veteran diplomat dies. Ultimately, his legacy in North Korean diplomacy remains considerable.
