Acting Prime Minister Han Duck-soo visited the memorial for Pope Francis set up at Myeongdong Cathedral in the Archdiocese of Seoul on the 22nd to pay his respects.
After the memorial, Han noted, "The late Pope Francis, the 266th Pope, left a deep spiritual teaching and legacy of faith for the Catholic Church and believers around the world."
He continued, "I express my deep gratitude and condolences to Pope Francis, who always practiced love for the poor and the socially weak with his humble and simple demeanor."
The previous day, Han sent a telegram to the Vatican to mourn the passing of Pope Francis.
In the telegram, Han said, "The government and people of the Republic of Korea share the sorrow with Catholics around the world and convey our heartfelt condolences."