President Lee: "Strict Accountability for Seosomun Overpass Accident and GTX Rebar Omission, Regardless of Rank or Position"

Industrial Safety Reemphasized at Senior Secretary Meeting on 10th Anniversary of Guui Station Tragedy

"Particularly Serious as Public Sector Involved... Money Can Never Be More Valuable Than Life," President Lee Stresses

President Lee Jae-myung stated on May 28, regarding the accident at the Seosomun Overpass demolition site, "We must promptly uncover the truth and hold those responsible strictly accountable, regardless of their rank or position, based on the investigation results."

President Lee Jae-myung is speaking at the senior secretaries' meeting held at the Blue House on May 28, 2026. Photo by Yonhap News Agency

At the senior secretaries' meeting held that afternoon at the main building of the Blue House, President Lee remarked, "A thorough investigation is needed to determine whether the Seosomun Overpass demolition site accident that occurred the day before yesterday, as well as the issue of missing rebar at Samseong Station on the GTX line, both stem from a culture that prioritizes money and efficiency over safety."

President Lee emphasized the seriousness of these two incidents, particularly because they are related to the public sector. He pointed out, "These cases are especially grave because they involve the public sector, which, more than anyone else, should be at the forefront of ensuring public safety."

His remarks were made in the context of commemorating the 10th anniversary of the Guui Station tragedy. President Lee said, "Many of you will remember that today marks the 10th anniversary of the Guui Station tragedy, where a young worker, working alone on the platform, was fatally struck by a train."

He continued, "Even after that day, there have been countless heartbreaking incidents where workers lost their lives at worksites that should be the safest places. Thanks to public attention and efforts on the ground, the number of occupational accident fatalities fell significantly in the first quarter of this year, but fatalities are still occurring far too often."

President Lee once again addressed the structural issues at industrial sites, criticizing the ongoing practice of putting cost and efficiency ahead of safety. He said, "There are still deeply rooted practices in our society that put money and efficiency ahead of safety." He added, "Nothing is more valuable than life. We must remember that safety is the most effective investment. The government will mobilize all available resources to protect and save the lives of our people."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.