Gyeonggi Gov. Choo apologizes again over remarks criticized as disparaging firefighters

Gyeonggi Province Governor Choo Mi-ae has issued a fresh apology regarding her remarks deemed disparaging towards firefighters. The initial apology she gave, which was criticized for lacking genuine remorse, has failed to quell the public's dissatisfaction. On Monday, Choo expressed her sincere regret during a parliamentary audit at the Gyeonggi provincial government's office in Suwon, south of Seoul.

"I sincerely apologize to all firefighters who were hurt by my recent remarks," Choo stated. She emphasized her deep appreciation for the dedication of firefighters, stating that she values their work above all else. To address the controversy surrounding her comments, Choo pledged to pay greater attention to the safety and working conditions of firefighters.

The issue arose after Choo referred to the firefighting service as the primary headache and fiscal drain for local governments during a parliamentary audit last Tuesday. She first offered an apology on Saturday, four days after making the remarks, following the death of a firefighter responding to a factory fire in Bucheon, west of Seoul. However, her initial apology was met with further criticism, as it appeared to lack sincerity.

Choo acknowledged that if her remarks were conveyed in a manner different from her intentions, she extends deep regrets.