Lee expresses condolences over death of ex-Japanese PM Murayama

▲ President Lee Jae Myung (Yonhap)

Lee-ex-Japanese PM

Lee expresses condolences over death of ex-Japanese PM Murayama

SEOUL, Oct. 17 (Yonhap) -- President Lee Jae Myung on Friday expressed deep condolences over the death of former Japanese Prime Minister Tomiichi Murayama, who was known for his historic apology to Asian victims of Japan's wartime aggression.

"On behalf of the people of the Republic of Korea, I express my deepest condolences and respect," Lee wrote in a message posted on his Facebook account, using South Korea's official name.

Murayama, best known for the landmark 1995 "Murayama Statement," in which he expressed remorse for Japan's colonial rule and aggression in Asia, died Friday at the age of 101.

Lee praised Murayama as a man who made exceptional efforts toward reconciliation and co-prosperity with neighboring countries.

The president also shared his tribute in Japanese.

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