'1st Generation Female Activist' Professor Lee Hyo-jae Passes Away, Moon: "Played a Significant Role in Democratization and Social Movements"

President Moon on SNS: "Great respect for teachers' lives, vivid memory of disappointment after 2012 presidential election loss"

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Lim Cheol-young] President Moon Jae-in posted a tribute on social media (SNS) upon hearing the news of the passing of Professor Emeritus Lee Hyo-jae of Ewha Womans University, who laid the foundation of the first-generation women's movement.

On the 4th, President Moon said, "Professor Lee Hyo-jae was a pioneer of the Korean women's movement and played a significant role in the democratization movement and social activism," adding, "In a time that was dark, she was one of the great stars that shone even brighter."

He continued, "I vividly remember when she was deeply saddened and retired to her hometown after the 2012 presidential election defeat," and added, "The last time I met her was once in the Blue House's Noksu Garden in 2017. I pay great respect to her life and offer my sincere condolences."

Along with this tribute, President Moon also shared a photo taken in October 2017 at the Blue House with Professor Emeritus Lee. At that time, Professor Lee met with President Moon and his wife at the Blue House and urged them to "now focus on unification."

Professor Emeritus Lee passed away on the afternoon of the same day at the age of 96. According to the Korean Women's Associations United, she passed away due to old age. The funeral hall was set up at Changwon Gyeongsang National University Hospital.

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