Lee Jun-seok Visits Gwangju Hakdong Disaster Memorial Altar: "Thorough Investigation Needed to Ensure No Regrets for Bereaved Families"

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Gwangju=Asia Economy reporters Naju-seok Na and Junyi Park] On the 14th, Lee Jun-seok, leader of the People Power Party, visited the joint memorial altar for the victims of the Hakdong 4 District redevelopment collapse disaster set up at Dong-gu Office in Gwangju to pay his respects.

After paying respects, Lee said, "Like former People Power Party emergency committee chairman Kim Jong-in and floor leader Kim Ki-hyun, I wanted to speak humbly about history and the past and discuss the future of Honam and its younger generation, but due to this unfortunate accident, I am here first to offer my condolences."

He added, "(This accident is) truly an incomprehensible tragedy," and pointed out, "Putting aside issues like subcontracting problems and the absolute lack of construction funds that made the construction inevitable, there were multiple reports raising concerns about citizen safety, yet the local government did not respond promptly enough. This is a problem that must be improved."

He continued, "Since there are also vested interest issues in this redevelopment project, I hope the investigative authorities thoroughly investigate whether there was any collusion between politicians or related parties during the demolition process that cannot be understood, and use all investigative resources to identify those responsible so that the bereaved families do not suffer later."

Regarding former President Jeon Du-hwan's absence from trial, Lee said, "As a citizen, I think it is inappropriate," and added, "Regarding the words and actions that hurt the hearts of Gwangju citizens, our People Power Party reflected deeply under the Kim Jong-in administration, and I can affirm that this stance will continue under the new leadership." He stated, "In Honam, we will not dwell on our past mistakes but will give a firm commitment to show a positive vision for the future to the people of the Honam region."