Seoul: Democratic Party (DP) presidential candidate Lee Jae-myung and People Power Party (PPP) presidential candidate Kim Moon-soo expressed deep condolences Tuesday over the death of former Congressman Charles Rangel, a decorated Korean War veteran and longtime supporter of South Korea.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Lee described Rangel in a Facebook post as a "Korean War veteran and true friend" of South Korea, highlighting his 46 years of service in the U.S. Congress and his role as a founding member of the Congressional Caucus on Korea. Lee expressed his sorrow, noting Rangel's dedication to Korea's division and reunification, and acknowledged the peace and prosperity achieved through his efforts. He emphasized that the South Korea-U.S. alliance has evolved into a "true partnership with shared values and vision."
Kim, on the other hand, hailed Rangel as a "hero" who played a pivotal role in saving South Korea from the threat of communization. In a Facebook post, Kim reminisced about their collaboration on a photo exhibition of the Demilitarized Zone at the U.S. Congress in 2014. He assured that Rangel's legacy will endure in South Korea and committed to strengthening the South Korea-U.S. alliance that Rangel helped to foster.
During his tenure in Congress, Rangel was instrumental in legislative efforts concerning Korea-related issues, such as promoting peace and reunification on the Korean Peninsula, facilitating reunions of divided Korean American families, and advocating for Korean War veterans. He also supported the Korea-U.S. free trade agreement, cementing his legacy as a staunch ally of South Korea.