On the 21st, presidential candidates expressed condolences in unison over the news of the death of Pope Francis.
Lee Jae-myung, a candidate for the Democratic Party of Korea presidential primary, wrote on Facebook that "Pope Francis embodied the spirit of Christ" and that "he provided great teachings not only to the Catholic Church but also to the entire world." He also noted, "I remember Pope Francis's concern for peace on the Korean Peninsula and cannot forget how he consoled the bereaved families of the Sewol ferry tragedy by giving them baptism."
The candidate also reflected on the Pope's words, stating that "'politics is the highest form of charity for the common good. Politics is about serving people,'" and added, "I will live out the Pope's plea for more politicians to serve the socially weaker and the poor."
Kim Dong-yeon also expressed on Facebook that "(the Pope) had a special connection with our country. In 2014, he visited Korea and comforted the bereaved families of the Sewol ferry tragedy. In 2018, he encouraged former President Moon Jae-in on the journey towards peace on the Korean Peninsula." He added, "With the light the Pope left behind, we will love one another and take steps towards a better world."
Candidates from the People Power Party also expressed their condolences. Candidate Kim Moon-soo recounted his connection with Pope Francis during the latter's visit to Korea in August 2014. Kim shared on Facebook that "at that time, I was finishing my term as governor of Gyeonggi Province and was volunteering at a facility for disabled individuals in Eumseong, Chungcheongbuk-do. Pope Francis, who visited our facility, celebrated Mass and blessed not only those who were physically challenged but also volunteers like me."
He continued, "The Pope chose the name of Saint Francis, who dedicated his life to the poor and marginalized, and has committed himself to addressing the challenges humanity faces, such as war, famine, and disasters caused by climate change. I pray that Pope Francis now enjoys peace and rest in God's embrace."
Candidate Hong Joon-pyo also expressed his condolences on Facebook, stating, "I mourn the passing of Pope Francis, who was always on the side of the poor and the weak. I pray that he enjoys eternal life in heaven."
Candidate Han Dong-hoon remarked, "The life and message of the Pope, who always walked towards the lowest places, serve as a true compass that our politics and society must reflect upon in this era," emphasizing, "As the Pope said, 'If we do not take steps forward, we will come to a standstill,' I will walk towards a warmer and more inclusive society without stopping."
Candidate Na Kyung-won stated, "I will not forget his teaching that 'true strength lies in caring for the weakest,' and I will embody this by ensuring our society truly moves forward together with the marginalized."
Catholic candidate Ahn Cheol-soo also expressed, "During the time I deeply contemplated politics, the words conveyed by the Pope through Cardinal Thucson when I visited the Vatican, 'Politics is the sincerest form of charity,' continue to be the foundation of my life and a milestone of my mission," adding, "His words and actions will live on in the conscience of humanity for a long time to come."
Candidate Lee Jun-seok of the Reform Party also expressed deep condolences on Facebook for the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis. He stated, "The love for the poor and the marginalized, and the humble steps taken were a light for all humanity," and noted, "I, Lee Jun-seok Andrea, will carry the Pope's will in my heart and strive towards lower places. I pray for eternal rest."