Sangmin Lee: "Recent remarks have hurt many... I failed to carefully consider the people's feelings"

Minister Sang-min Lee Reports Current Issues to the National Assembly Public Administration Committee

Minister of the Interior and Safety Lee Sang-min is attending a full meeting of the Administrative Safety Committee held at the National Assembly on the afternoon of the 1st and is observing a moment of silence. From the left, Yoon Hee-geun, Commissioner of the National Police Agency; Minister Lee; Nam Hwa-young, Acting Commissioner and Deputy Commissioner of the National Fire Agency.
[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Lim Cheol-young] "Although the state has unlimited responsibility for the safety of its citizens, I would like to take this opportunity, as the minister in charge of public safety, to offer my sincere apologies to the public for the occurrence of this accident."

Minister of the Interior and Safety Lee Sang-min stated this on the 1st during a current affairs report at the National Assembly's Public Administration and Security Committee, saying, "I pray for the souls of those who lost their lives in the Itaewon accident. I especially extend my deepest condolences to the bereaved families."

He continued, "I wish for the speedy recovery and good health of those who are receiving treatment and suffering in hospital due to the shock of this accident," adding, "As a member of the State Council and as a father with a son and daughter, this accident is extremely tragic and heartbreaking. It is difficult for me to accept such an unreal situation, and the devastation is beyond words."

He also expressed deep regret over his repeated remarks following the accident. Minister Lee said, "I understand that many people were hurt emotionally by my comments during recent media briefings," and added, "Although my intention was to advise against premature speculation or judgment until the investigation results are announced, I ultimately failed to carefully consider the feelings of the bereaved families who lost precious loved ones and the grieving public."

He then stated, "Taking this incident as an opportunity, I promise the public that I will devote all my efforts and do my utmost to manage the aftermath, determine the cause of the accident, and prevent the recurrence of large-scale incidents."

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