Government Employees' Union Urges Urgent Trauma Treatment and Improved Working Conditions After Firefighter's Death in Itaewon Disaster

On November 8 last year, the Korean Public Service and Transport Workers' Union Firefighters' Union held a press conference around the Fire Agency at the Government Sejong Complex, demanding improvements in the treatment of firefighters. Korean Public Service and Transport Workers' Union

On August 20, the Korean Government Employees' Union Federation (Chairperson: Seok Hyunjung) issued a statement commemorating firefighter A, who died after suffering from the aftereffects of the Itaewon disaster dispatch. The statement called on the government to provide trauma treatment and mental health care for firefighters, increase personnel, and improve working conditions.

The Federation expressed its deep condolences, stating, "We deeply mourn the loss of our fellow firefighter, who belonged to the Incheon Fire Headquarters and was a valued member of our union. He was a true public servant who dedicated his life to protecting the lives and safety of the people." The Federation emphasized, "This tragedy is not simply an individual's pain, but a result of trauma from the Itaewon disaster and the repeated mental and physical suffering experienced at disaster sites. The psychological shock and pain that firefighters endure every day on behalf of the public can never be dismissed as a personal issue."

The Federation continued, "Firefighters are still left in poor working conditions. It is a serious social contradiction that those who risk their lives for public safety are not even guaranteed the minimum means to protect themselves." The statement pointed out, "Trauma treatment, mental health care, increasing personnel, and improving working conditions are urgent tasks that can no longer be delayed."

The Federation further stated, "We will never forget the noble sacrifice of the deceased," and strongly demanded that the government and society establish institutional measures and improve working conditions so that no firefighter has to collapse in isolation and helplessness again. The Federation added, "We offer our deepest condolences to the bereaved family and pray for the repose of the deceased. We will stand together until the end to ensure that his sacrifice is not in vain."