President Lee Jae-myung stated, "The government must take the lead in saving the lives of the people and building a nation where citizens are safe in their daily lives, so that tragic events in which unjust deaths occur due to the absence of the state are never repeated."

President Lee made the remarks while presiding over the 46th Cabinet meeting at the Blue House today (October 27), two days ahead of the fourth anniversary of the October 29 Itaewon disaster, saying, "I pray for the victims who lost their precious lives, and I extend my deepest words of comfort to the bereaved families enduring unspeakable sorrow and pain."

He continued, "Protecting the lives and safety of the people is the state's foremost duty and reason for being," pointing out, "However, despite experiencing countless incidents and accidents, including the Sewol ferry disaster and the Itaewon disaster, there is still a very long way to go before all citizens can enjoy a safe everyday life."

He added, "When the Framework Act on Life and Safety takes effect on December 3, it will serve as a significant milestone toward advancing into a society grounded in life and safety," urging officials to "make every effort to improve follow-up institutional systems so that the law can be implemented without a hitch."

"All ministries and agencies must also pool their efforts to build a watertight, comprehensive safety net capable of protecting the lives of the people from all everyday threats, including natural disasters, major industrial accidents, various catastrophes, and violent crimes," he stressed, adding, "Only when the lives of the people are secure can the community become solid and social cohesion grow, laying the foundation for greater growth and development."

(Photo: Yonhap News)