Public Officials' 'Problematic Mouth'... Hurtful Remarks Distress Itaewon and Osong Bereaved Families

Officials Making It Harder for Bereaved Families Expressing Their Pain

The response of high-ranking public officials to a major disaster that shocked the nation is once again becoming a subject of controversy. It is said that instead of empathizing with the devastated feelings of the bereaved families who lost their loved ones, their harsh remarks are aggravating the pain.

Choi Eun-kyung, co-representative of the Bereaved Families Association of the Chungbuk Osong Disaster Victims, criticized Governor Kim Young-hwan of Chungbuk Province's remarks as "harsh words" on the 28th during MBC Radio's 'Kim Jong-bae's Focus.'

Earlier, on the 20th, Governor Kim made a statement at the joint condolence altar for the Osong disaster victims at the Chungbuk Provincial Office, saying, "Even if I had arrived earlier, the situation would not have changed," in response to criticism over delayed action, which drew public backlash.

Governor Kim Young-hwan of Chungbuk Province is responding to reporters' questions during his visit to the joint memorial altar for the Cheongju Osong Underpass Disaster set up at the Chungbuk Provincial Office on the morning of the 20th. Photo by Yonhap News

As the controversy grew, Governor Kim sent a handwritten letter of apology to the bereaved families on the 26th. He said, "As the governor responsible for protecting the lives and property of Chungbuk residents, I feel deeply sorry," and added, "I will visit each family member soon. Once again, I bow my head and offer my sincere apologies."

In response, Co-representative Choi expressed, "(He) sent it as a text message (after taking a photo of the letter)," and lamented, "Honestly, this feels more like harassment than an apology."

She clarified, "We clearly expressed our intention to arrange a meeting after consultation with the Bereaved Families Association," and pointed out, "The reason (Governor Kim's side) keeps sending texts like this seems to be a show to demonstrate 'I tried to meet you.'"

Controversies over harsh remarks by public officials repeatedly occur during major disasters. During the Itaewon disaster, which resulted in 159 deaths, City Councilor Kim Mina of Changwon caused a stir with her harsh remarks. In November last year, Councilor Kim posted derogatory comments about the Itaewon disaster victims and their families on social media.

Due to the controversy over her remarks related to the Itaewon disaster, Councilor Kim received disciplinary actions including a 30-day suspension from the Changwon City Council and a six-month suspension of party membership from the People Power Party's Gyeongnam Provincial Office.

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