Lee Dong-Kwan, Spokesman, South Korean Presidential Office, said, "President Lee Myung-bak says it is truly unbelievable. He says it is a regretful and tragic matter, and has expressed his condolences."

The public are also grieving.

Park Kyung-Hee, Resident, said, "I am extremely sad. I can't imagine how much pain he had to suffer. I think that death was the best choice for him so that those close to him would not have to suffer."

Song Hyun-Sook, Resident, said, "It is very horrible that he died. I do not want to believe it. He is not going to come back alive, I am heartbroken."

Roh was under heavy pressure in recent weeks.

He and his family were under investigation in connection with a bribery scandal. The ex-president was struggling to clear his name.

The Justice Minister says the investigation on Roh and his family will be put to an end.