Former President Chun visits Kim in hospital

Former President Chun Doo-hwan yesterday visited the hospital in Seoul, hoping for the recovery of former President Kim Dae-jung, who has been hospitalized for more than a month due to complications of pneumonia and old age.

Kim, 85, venerated for his lifelong devotion to democracy and peace on the Korean Peninsula, had been sentenced to death for resistance against the military government under Chun`s rule.

Chun, 78, had been sentenced to death for rebellion in 1996 and was pardoned by Kim the next year. Chun served as president from 1980 to 1988 and Kim served from 1998 to 2003.

Chun met with Kim`s wife Lee Hee-ho, his aides and doctors, but not Kim due to his condition.

"I know how much trouble you may be going through. I`ve come here from my vacation as his condition appears to be deteriorating," Chun said to the former first lady.

"Since the hospital staff here are preeminent, he will get well. Though it would take time due to his old age, he will definitely recuperate and get discharged happily."

Kim was hospitalized on July 13 and linked to a respirator. He recovered soon, but was readmitted to an intensive care unit on July 23 after having developed a pulmonary embolism.

(sshluck@heraldm.com)



By Song Sang-ho