Pyongyang, September 28 (KCNA) -- Wife of Rev. Mun Ik Hwan Pak Yong Gil who was called "grandma of reunification" by Koreans, passed away on September 25.

Leader Kim Jong Il sent a message of condolence to the bereaved family of Pak Yong Gil on September 26. In the message he said though she passed away to our regret before seeing the spring of reunification so ardently desired by her, her patriotic soul devoted to the national concord and reunification would always be remembered by the Koreans in the north and south and abroad.

Rev. Mun Ik Hwan was chairman of the preparatory committee for formation of the south headquarters of the Pan-national Alliance for Korea's Reunification. He visited Pyongyang, prompted by the will to put an end to the tragedy of national split, and met President Kim Il Sung. He was a famous pro-reunification patriot who made a big contribution to bringing about a new phase in national reconciliation and unity.

Rev. Mun was a pioneer in the reunification movement as he performed distinguished exploits for national unity and reunification, guided by pro-nation religious belief. He said "split leads to the ruin of the nation whereas reunification leads to its revival."

Pak Yong Gil visited Pyongyang at the risk of her life at the age of 70 late in June of 1995 to pay homage to President Kim Il Sung as she considered as dear the deep friendship and close ties that formed between the President and Rev. Mun on the road of national reunification.

She left Seoul in white clothes to visit the bier of the President. This was a patriotic deed reflecting the unanimous feelings of the south Korean people.

Kim Jong Il cordially received Presbyter Pak Yong Gil and showed all loving care for her.

She was deeply moved by ardent patriotism displayed by Kim Jong Il for national reunification and unity. During her stay in Pyongyang she was praised by all Koreans as "grandma of reunification" for her energetic patriotic activities.

Pak Yong Gil is alive in the hearts of the Koreans as pro-reunification patriot for her life dedicated to national reunification.