Democratic Party Criticizes President Yoon's Mention of 'Nuclear Power Plant Safety' as "Extremely Dangerous Statement"

"“Nuclear Power Plant Safety Is a Core Value Beyond Comparison”"

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Lim Chun-han] On the 23rd, the Democratic Party of Korea criticized President Yoon Suk-yeol's remarks made during his visit to Doosan Enerbility, a nuclear power plant equipment company, saying, "The nuclear power industry is currently at war. In wartime, bureaucratic thinking that prioritizes safety must be abandoned," calling it a "reckless statement" and demanding that he "withdraw the remarks immediately."

Lee Su-jin, the Democratic Party floor spokesperson, stated in a written briefing that "It is hard to believe these are the words of the president," adding, "It seems he does not understand how terrifying a nuclear accident can be. Nuclear safety is a core value that cannot be compared to anything else."

Lee further said, "If the president, who should prioritize the lives and safety of the people, makes such remarks, can the public truly trust nuclear safety?" He pointed out, "It is well known that the president lacks philosophy and vision regarding the climate crisis and energy policy, but this is shocking." He added, "It is worrisome whether a president who defines safety awareness as bureaucratic thinking beyond mere safety negligence can protect the lives and safety of the people."

Woo Won-shik, a Democratic Party lawmaker, wrote on social media, "The president's ignorance is frightening in terms of how much disaster it could bring to the people," and said, "I hope he retracts the foolish remarks that suggest public safety can be ignored for the benefit of the nuclear industry." Democratic Party lawmaker Han Jeong-ae said, "To all nuclear industry workers, safety must always come first," and warned, "If an accident occurs, the president will not take responsibility. He will act as an enforcer of the law."