"The World and Japan" Database (Project Leader: TANAKA Akihiko)
Database of Japanese Politics and International Relations
National Graduate Institute for Policy Studies (GRIPS); Institute for Advanced Studies on Asia (IASA), The University of Tokyo

[Title] Statement by Prime Minister Taro Aso on the Passing of Former President Kim Dae Jung of the Republic of Korea

[Place]
[Date] August 18, 2009
[Source] Prime Minister of Japan and His Cabinet
[Notes] Provisional Translation
[Full text]

Upon learning of the demise of former President Kim Dae Jung of the Republic of Korea, I should like to offer, on behalf of the Government and people of Japan, my sincere condolences to the Government and people of the Republic of Korea.

Former President Kim and former Prime Minister Keizo Obuchi announced the Japan-Republic of Korea Joint Declaration during Mr Kim's visit to Japan in October 1998. Mr Kim contributed to the building of a new Japan-Republic of Korea partnership towards the twenty-first century by opening his country to Japanese popular culture and through the successful co-hosting by the two countries of the 2002 FIFA World Cup. Japan-Republic of Korea relations have since developed dramatically until the present.

I should like to express deep respect for Mr. Kim's extensive achievements.