Kim Dae-Jung 1925–
Former President of South Korea
In June of 2000, South Korean President Kim Dae-Jung traveled to Pyongyang, North Korea. There, he met with North Korean ruler Kim Jong Il. It was a historic occasion. North and South Korea had been bitter enemies since 1950. The meeting between the leaders, however, gave many people hope for peace. A year later, Kim Dae-Jung was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for his efforts to reunite the two Koreas.
Kim Dae-Jung was born in the Cholla region of South Korea. After graduating from high school, he went into business. In the 1950s, Kim started speaking out for greater democracy in South Korea. He became a leader of the opposition to President Park Chung-Hee, who had gained power by military force.
Over the years, Kim was attacked and imprisoned for his political activities. He persevered, however, and in 1997 Kim was elected president. It was the first time in the country's history that the ruling party had lost power to the opposition party. As president, Kim worked to improve the economy and to bring South Korea and North Korea together.
Critical Thinking
In what ways did Kim Dae-Jung work for democracy in South Korea?