The new Emperor, Akihito, offered his "deepest regrets" in 1990 to visiting South Korean President Roh Tae Woo.

CNN: ASIANOW - TIME Asia | Lesser Majesty

This process culminated in the jailing of his two predecessors as President, Chun Doo Hwan and Roh Tae Woo, on corruption charges.

BBC: No tears for outgoing President

During Mr Kim Young Sam's presidency, two former presidents, Chun Doo Hwan and Roh Tae Woo, were jailed for treason, insurrection and taking bribes.

ECONOMIST: South Korea