Dr Lee Jong-wook, director general of the World Health Organisation (WHO), has died following his admittance to the Cantonal Hospital in Geneva, Switzerland on the afternoon of Saturday 20th May for surgery to remove a blood clot on his brain (a subdural hematoma).
Dr Lee, aged 61, suddenly fell ill on Saturday afternoon while attending an official function. He had been director general since 21 July 2003 and had worked for WHO for 23 years, at country and regional levels, and at WHO Headquarters in Geneva. He is survived by his wife and son.
"The sudden loss of our leader, colleague and friend, is devastating", reads a WHO statement. All WHO staff have extended their condolences to Dr Lee's family. Further condolences can be sent to DrLee-tribute@who.int.
The business of the World Health Assembly, WHO's policy-making body, will continue as scheduled from 22-27 May. Dr Anders Nordstroem, currently assistant director general for general management, will serve as acting director general.
Email address for condolences
DrLee-tribute@who.int