` During his tenure , President Roh contributed to the strong and vital relationship between the United States and the Republic of Korea , '' Obama said in the statement issued by the White House . ` 2009 : Roh committed suicide by jumping to his death from a hill . Roh 's death came amid bribery scandal that has damaged his reputation . Was first South Korean leader to cross the DMZ and meet with Kim Jong Il . President Obama offered condolences from Seoul to his family and Korean people .
2009 : Roh committed suicide by jumping to his death from a hill . Roh 's death came amid bribery scandal that has damaged his reputation . Was first South Korean leader to cross the DMZ and meet with Kim Jong Il . President Obama offered condolences from Seoul to his family and Korean people .