South Korea's presidential hopefuls offered condolences on Monday following the death of Pope Francis, each reflecting on how the late pontiff's message of peace, compassion and justice resonated with Korean society.
Rep. Lee Jae-myung, the leading contender from the main opposition Democratic Party of Korea, highlighted the pope’s call to “end all wars,” delivered just a day before his passing. He also recalled the pontiff’s 2014 visit to Korea, when he baptized bereaved relatives of the Sewol ferry victims — a tragic maritime disaster that claimed over 300 lives — and quoted him as saying, “Politics is the highest form of charity for the common good.”
Kim Kyoung-soo, former South Gyeongsang governor and a Catholic, recalled the pope’s beatification of Korean martyrs and called him “a giver of peace and rest.”
Gyeonggi Governor Kim Dong-yeon, another Democratic Party contender, said the world had lost one of its brightest lights, recalling the pope’s unwavering compassion for the poor.
From the ruling People Power Party, Rep. Ahn Cheol-soo shared a personal memory from a Vatican visit, when Cardinal Peter Turkson relayed the pope’s words: “Politics is the sincerest form of charity.” Ahn said the message still guides his public service.
Other People Power Party contenders — including Rep. Na Kyung-won, former party leader Han Dong-hoon, former Daegu Mayor Hong Joon-pyo, former lawmaker Yang Hyang-ja, and North Gyeongsang Governor Lee Cheol-woo — also offered brief condolences, honoring the pope’s humility and global impact.
Rep. Lee Jun-seok, the top contender from the minor conservative opposition Reform Party, paid tribute using his baptismal name, Andrea, saying he would carry the pope’s message of love and humility in his heart.
In addition to individual tributes, the People Power Party, Democratic Party, and Progressive Party issued official statements mourning the pope’s passing.
National Assembly Speaker Woo Won-shik also released a brief message, expressing gratitude for the pope’s repeated efforts and messages in support of peace on the Korean Peninsula.
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