Gov't to take responsibility for firefighters' safety: PM

Prime Minister Han Seong-sook announced on Monday that the government will assume responsibility for ensuring the safety of firefighters as the country observed National Firefighters Day. In a message posted on X, Han emphasized that providing firefighters with adequate numbers of personnel, necessary equipment, and a secure working environment is a duty of the state and should not solely rely on the personal dedication of the firefighters themselves.

Han stated that the government will strive to enhance working conditions and bolster the personnel and equipment available on the front lines by increasing the funds allocated to firefighting. She also mentioned that the government will collaborate with relevant ministries to implement institutional reforms aimed at establishing a stable financial base for the firefighting sector.

The issue of firefighting budget had been a contentious topic in recent weeks following remarks made by Gyeonggi Province Governor Choo Mi-ae, who described firefighters as a "fiscal drain" last month. This comment sparked widespread public outrage, particularly after the tragic death of a firefighter who was dispatched to a factory fire in Bucheon, located west of Seoul. Governor Choo has since issued multiple apologies for his remarks.