Former Minister of Culture and Sports Joo Don-sik Passes Away... Demolition of Old Joseon Government-General Building

Served as Presidential Senior Secretary for Political Affairs and First Minister of Political Affairs in the Civilian Government

Former Minister of Culture and Sports Joo Don-sik
Photo by Yonhap News

Former Minister of Culture and Sports Joo Don-sik, who led the demolition of the old Joseon Government-General Building, passed away on the 2nd at the age of 85.

Former Minister Joo was born in Cheonan, Chungnam, graduated from Seoul National University with a degree in Korean Language Education, and earned a master's degree from Korea University's Graduate School of Business. He joined the Chosun Ilbo in 1965, mainly working in the political department. As a Korean linguistics major, he was known for his excellent writing skills and quickly gained recognition under a pen name.

The late Mr. Joo was close to former President Kim Young-sam, who was an opposition leader, and was frequently summoned by investigative agencies. In particular, in June 1969, he was summoned and investigated by the Central Intelligence Agency after criticizing the acid attack incident involving former President Kim. Later, he recalled, "As a reporter covering the National Assembly, I alternated between covering the ruling and opposition parties, but emotionally I leaned toward the opposition. Seeing the somewhat disorderly opposition lawmakers, I thought, 'Still, these people are the ones who can stand up against the regime.'"

He received offers to enter politics from both ruling and opposition parties but declined. He served as editor-in-chief for two years until 1992, and after former President Kim was elected that year, he left the media industry. He entered politics as the Presidential Secretary for Political Affairs, serving as Public Relations Secretary, Minister of Culture and Sports (1994?1995), and Minister of Political Affairs (1995?1996). He played a key role in carrying out the demolition of the old Joseon Government-General Building and served as a political advisor to former President Kim.

After retiring from public office, he served as dean and distinguished professor at the Graduate School of Media and Culture at Sejong University. He also published works such as "1,200 Days of the Civilian Government," "We Also Want a Good President," the essay collection "How Does the World Turn," and the illustrated essay book "Mother's Flower Garden." Recognized for his outstanding contributions, he received the Order of Service Merit in 1996 and the Sejong Media Award in 2006. He is survived by his children Young-chan, Yeon-kyung, and Seon-kyung. The funeral is being held at Seoul National University Bundang Hospital Funeral Hall Room 1, with the funeral procession scheduled for 7 a.m. on the 4th.

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