Commemorating the Third Anniversary of the Itaewon Tragedy on Facebook
"I Cannot Comprehend the Senseless Loss of So Many Lives"
Defining the Tragedy as a Failure of the Government’s Control Tower
Emphasizing the Need for Thorough Investigation and Accountability
Kim Youngrok, Governor of Jeonnam Province, stated that the Itaewon tragedy resulted from the Yoon Suk-yeol administration's inadequate disaster management. He also expressed the view that both a thorough investigation and accountability are necessary.
On October 29, Governor Kim wrote on his Facebook page, "Today marks the third anniversary of the 10·29 Itaewon tragedy. I deeply mourn and pay tribute to the 159 victims. I also extend my heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families who have endured long days of suffering after losing their loved ones."
Governor Kim recalled, "I still cannot forget the tragedy of that day," adding, "I could not comprehend how so many citizens could be lost so senselessly in the heart of Seoul."
He continued, "I repeatedly questioned what the state, which is responsible for the safety and lives of its people, was doing at the time. It was a complex tragedy that makes one lament that things could have been different if even a single part had functioned properly. It was a quintessential example of what can happen when the highest authorities of the state fail to function as a control tower."
He further emphasized, "Such a tragedy must never be repeated," and stressed, "We must demonstrate a transparent process of thorough investigation and corresponding accountability."
In conclusion, Governor Kim stated, "Jeonnam Province will stand with the bereaved families of the Itaewon tragedy until their wishes are fulfilled," adding, "Resolving the issues surrounding the Itaewon tragedy must serve as a turning point in creating a safer Korea for all its people."
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