Lee Jae-myung: "Itaewon Tragedy, It Is Absolutely Not the Victims' Fault... Solely the Nation's Responsibility"

President Yoon's Apology Needed
Truth Must Be Uncovered Through State Audit and Special Investigation

Lee Jae-myung, leader of the Democratic Party of Korea, is attending the Supreme Council meeting held at the National Assembly on the 7th and delivering opening remarks. Photo by Yoon Dong-joo doso7@

[Asia Economy Reporter Naju-seok] Lee Jae-myung, leader of the Democratic Party of Korea, said on the 7th regarding the Itaewon tragedy, "I want to say this to the victims, bereaved families, the injured, and those affected," adding, "It is solely the fault of the state and never your fault." Lee called for the resignation of Prime Minister Han Duck-soo and a complete overhaul of state affairs, stating the need for a parliamentary state investigation and a special prosecutor to uncover the truth.

At the Democratic Party's Supreme Council meeting held at the National Assembly that day, Lee said, "The mourning period is over, but there are still many unresolved unfinished tasks," and added, "As the leader of the main opposition party, I once again express my deep sense of responsibility."

He said, "Now, the time for true mourning and remembrance for the victims has passed, and the time for accountability has come," adding, "While mourning and remembrance will continue, I say it is now time to focus on determining responsibility."

Lee emphasized, "The most important thing is that the ultimate person responsible for this entire tragedy, the final person responsible for state affairs, must sincerely and solemnly offer a national apology to the people and the victims." He continued, "Responsibility is not borne by words but by actions," and said, "A complete overhaul of state affairs, including the resignation of the Prime Minister, is absolutely necessary."

Additionally, he stated, "A thorough investigation to uncover the truth is necessary," and said, "While investigations must be conducted, the urgent matter right now is to engage in a thorough parliamentary state investigation. However, since the state investigation lacks compulsory investigative authority, it is time to discuss a special prosecutor. The truth must be uncovered through a neutral special prosecutor, followed by strict disciplinary action against those involved."

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