Democratic Party (MINJU) Mourns Firefighter Killed in Line of Duty in Bucheon Fire: "Will Strive to Support Improved Working Conditions"

The Democratic Party (MINJU) today (October 17) mourned Fire Lieutenant Kim Jin-seok, who died in the line of duty during a fire at a factory in Bucheon, Gyeonggi Province, and emphasized that the government must fulfill its duty to protect the safety and lives of firefighters.

Democratic Party Floor Leader Han Byung-do stated on Facebook, "May the deceased rest in peace," adding, "I also extend my deepest condolences to the bereaved family and fellow firefighters."

Floor Leader Han emphasized, "Even at this very moment, the dedication of firefighters who rush to the scene to protect the lives and safety of our people is more noble and precious than anything else," adding, "Providing proper honors and respect worthy of their sacrifice and dedication is the rightful duty of the state."

He continued, "The Democratic Party will strive to provide support to improve safety and working conditions so that firefighters can fulfill their mission in a safer environment," adding, "We will meticulously ensure that there is not the slightest neglect in honoring fallen firefighters and supporting their bereaved families."

Floor Spokesperson Lee Joo-hee stated in a written briefing, "Protecting the lives and safety of firefighters who protect the public is a fundamental duty of the state," adding, "We will thoroughly examine whether that responsibility is being fulfilled."

Spokesperson Lee promised, "In the upcoming budget review, we will secure the budget needed to expand firefighting personnel and equipment, and to improve working environments and treatment," adding, "We will identify shortcomings that threaten safety and rectify them through institutions and the budget."

The Democratic Party also apologized once again for Gyeonggi Province Governor Choo Mi-ae's so-called 'firefighting fiscal straw' remark.

Earlier, on October 13, Governor Choo sparked controversy during the National Assembly Public Administration and Security Committee's parliamentary audit regarding local government finances by remarking, "Firefighting seems to be the most troublesome fiscal straw."

Spokesperson Lee stated, "We once again sincerely apologize to the fire officials and their families who were hurt by Governor Choo's remark," adding, "We take heavily to heart that we failed to fully appreciate the hard work and pride of those who quietly carry out their duties at hazardous scenes."

(Photo: Yonhap News)
※ Please note: This article was translated by AI and may contain errors.