In Response to Criticism Over Inadequate Heavy Rain Response in Sejong City, Presidential Office Says "Strict Accountability for Any Wrongdoing"

In Response to People Power Party Criticism:
"Disasters Should Not Be Used for Political Strife"

The Office of the President stated on July 21 that, in response to criticism regarding inadequate response to heavy rainfall in Sejong City, "If any serious breaches of official discipline or wrongdoing are found, we will hold those responsible strictly accountable and devise thorough measures to prevent recurrence."

Yonhap News

Kang Yoojeong, spokesperson for the Office of the President, said during a briefing at the Yongsan Presidential Office on this day, "It was revealed that even though a citizen was swept away by a torrent and went missing in Sejong City, the local government disaster command was unaware of the incident for as long as 23 hours." She made these remarks in this context.

She further pointed out, "Despite the Office of the President ordering a thorough response, awareness of the incident itself was delayed, and proper reports were not made," adding, "The disaster control tower in Sejong City did not function properly."

Additionally, with regard to the criticism issued by the People Power Party on this matter, spokesperson Kang countered that disasters should not be subject to political strife and that this is a time for collective effort. She explained, "When facts have not been fully established, disasters should not be cited in specific commentaries or used for political disputes," and added, "All matters related to the disaster are being reported to the Office of the President, and President Lee Jaemyung has also instructed that the designation of special disaster areas be expedited."

Previously, Park Sunghoon, chief spokesperson for the People Power Party, stated in a commentary, "Why are President Lee and the Democratic Party, who made a fuss over the 'Sewol Ferry seven hours,' remaining silent about the 23-hour missing person incident in Sejong City?" and further criticized, "Are candidates Kang Sunwoo and Lee Jinsook being protected while the lives of the people are not?"

Meanwhile, spokesperson Kang stated, "The Lee Jaemyung administration will swiftly review the declaration of special disaster areas and the allocation of special grants, and will fulfill the central government's role and responsibilities," and urged, "Local governments should also make every effort in flood recovery and prevention."