Is Former South Korean PM Lee Hae-chan in Critical Condition After Heart Attack During Vietnam Trip?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Lee Hae-chan collapsed during an official trip in Vietnam.
- He is receiving intensive treatment following a heart attack.
- Collaboration between South Korean and Vietnamese authorities is underway.
- Fellow lawmakers express hope for his miraculous recovery.
- Lee's contributions to Korea's democracy are being highlighted.
Seoul, Jan 24 (NationPress) A high-ranking presidential aide along with lawmakers from the ruling party has arrived in Vietnam to offer support to former South Korean Prime Minister Lee Hae-chan, who is currently in critical condition following a heart attack during his visit to Ho Chi Minh City, according to officials.
Cho Jung-sik, the Special Advisor to the President for political affairs, went directly to the general hospital where Lee is receiving intensive treatment after arriving in Vietnam on Saturday afternoon.
President Lee Jae Myung dispatched Cho late Friday after learning of the severity of the former Prime Minister's condition.
Cho is anticipated to update the President on Lee Hae-chan's status and assess if further support is necessary, as reported by Yonhap news agency.
Lee Hae-chan, who serves as the senior vice chairperson of the Peaceful Unification Advisory Council (PUAC), collapsed during his official trip to Ho Chi Minh City on Friday due to breathing difficulties.
He underwent a stent insertion procedure and is still in critical condition, requiring a mechanical device for breathing. His stay in the hospital is expected to continue until his situation stabilizes.
While Lee's respiration and complexion have shown some improvement compared to the previous day, he remains unconscious, according to the PUAC.
In addition to Cho, several lawmakers from the ruling Democratic Party (DP) visited the hospital in the morning after arriving in Ho Chi Minh City.
Rep. Kim Tae-nyeon remarked to reporters, "Lee has accomplished significant contributions towards the democratization, prosperity, and well-being of the Republic of Korea," expressing hope for a miraculous recovery.
Vietnamese authorities, including the Prime Minister's office, are reportedly working closely with South Korean officials regarding Lee's medical care.