Kim Dae Jung

Date of Birth: January 6, 1924

Zodiac Sign: Capricorn

Date of Death: August 18, 2009

Biography

Kim Dae-jung was a South Korean politician and statesman who served as the President of South Korea from 1998 to 2003. He was born on January 6, 1924, in Haui-do, a small island in South Jeolla Province. Kim Dae-jung is often referred to as the “Nelson Mandela of Asia” for his lifelong struggle for democracy and human rights in South Korea. He was a prominent opposition leader during the years of authoritarian rule and faced multiple assassination attempts and imprisonment. His perseverance in advocating for democracy earned him the Nobel Peace Prize in 2000, particularly for his efforts to foster reconciliation with North Korea through the Sunshine Policy. Kim’s presidency was marked by significant economic reforms, social welfare improvements, and an active engagement in international diplomacy. Despite facing a severe economic crisis when he took office, his administration successfully navigated the country through the turmoil, laying the foundation for future economic stability and growth. Kim Dae-jung passed away on August 18, 2009, leaving behind a legacy of peace, democracy, and resilience.

5 Interesting Facts about Kim Dae Jung

1. Kim Dae-jung survived multiple assassination attempts, the most notable being a kidnapping by the Korean Central Intelligence Agency in 1973.

2. He spent a total of six years in prison or under house arrest during his political career.

3. Kim Dae-jung was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2000 for his efforts in promoting democracy and human rights in South Korea and East Asia.

4. His “Sunshine Policy” aimed at improving relations with North Korea, leading to the first-ever inter-Korean summit in 2000.

5. Kim was the first opposition candidate to win the presidency in South Korea’s history.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Kim Dae Jung

1. “Human rights are the soul of our foreign policy, because human rights are the very soul of our sense of nationhood.”

2. “The most important thing is that we should be united in our efforts to build a genuine democracy.”

3. “If you are ready to die for your country, you can change the world.”

4. “I hope that our history will show that we made every effort to bring peace to the Korean Peninsula.”

5. “We must transcend our differences and work together for the common good.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Kim Dae-jung’s net worth at the peak of his career is not well-documented, but as a public servant and political leader, his wealth was modest compared to private sector magnates.

Children

Kim Dae-jung had three sons: Kim Hong-il, Kim Hong-up, and Kim Hong-gul. Each of his sons has been involved in politics or public service in various capacities.