Prime Minister Han: "Will Strictly Hold Accountable After Police Investigation, Also Plans to Innovate 112 Response System"

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Sejong=Reporter Kim Hyewon] Prime Minister Han Duck-soo stated on the 2nd regarding the Itaewon crowd crush disaster, "The government will strictly hold accountable those responsible as soon as the investigation is completed and will also prepare comprehensive measures to innovate the 112 emergency response system."

On the same day, Prime Minister Han presided over the 'Itaewon Accident Central Disaster and Safety Countermeasures Headquarters (CDSCH) meeting' at the Government Seoul Office and said, "I hope the police thoroughly investigate through the Special Investigation Headquarters and internal inspection and provide transparent and detailed explanations to the public."

Regarding the police's release of the 112 emergency call recordings from the evening of the accident the previous day, Prime Minister Han pointed out, "The most fundamental duty of the police is to protect the lives and property of the people," adding, "If there is any complacent judgment or loss of vigilance in carrying out this duty, it betrays the trust of the people."

Concerning the funeral procedures, he said, "As of yesterday, funerals for 68 of the deceased have been completed, and 58 funerals are scheduled for today," and added, "The Ministry of Health and Welfare and Seoul City should maintain one-on-one matching with the bereaved families for a certain period even after the funerals are completed and continuously provide guidance on any necessary support."

Prime Minister Han further urged, "Each ministry should strengthen communication with domestic and international media centered on the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, and, if necessary, make efforts to accurately convey the facts to the media." He also emphasized, "Protecting the lives and safety of the people is the government's most important responsibility," and said, "All public officials should once again renew their resolve and do their best to improve systems for managing the Itaewon accident and preventing its recurrence."

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