Fourth Anniversary of Hwajeong I-Park Collapse... Kim Ikang, Mayor of Gwangju Seo-gu: "Remembrance Is Responsibility"

In Memorial Message: "We Will Prevent Such Tragedies from Happening Again"

Gwangju Seo-gu visited the "Gwangju Hwajeong I-Park Victims 4th Anniversary Joint Memorial Altar" set up at Kumho Highville Shopping Center on the 11th to pay tribute to the victims. Photo by Gwangju Seo-gu

On the fourth anniversary of the Gwangju Hwajeong I-Park apartment collapse, Kim Ikang, Mayor of Seo-gu District in Gwangju, paid tribute to the victims.

In a memorial message on the 11th, Mayor Kim stated, "I deeply mourn those who lost their precious lives in the accident and offer my heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families." He continued, "Today, we must not stop at mourning. We will reform systems and practices to prevent such tragedies from ever happening again, and we will make public safety our highest priority."

Mayor Kim also addressed the role of administration, saying, "Our responsibility is not only to manage the aftermath of accidents, but to protect citizens' lives and daily routines before accidents occur. I will never forget this principle."

He also mentioned Seo-gu District's approach to safety management.

He said, "We will further strengthen safety inspections and management systems at all public construction sites and in everyday life, and we will implement a preventive administration that does not overlook even the smallest risks. We will firmly uphold the principle that there can be no compromise when it comes to citizens' lives and safety."

He added, "We will respond with responsible administration so that today's remembrance leads to tomorrow's change. Once again, I pray for the souls of the victims."

The Hwajeong I-Park collapse occurred on January 11, 2022, resulting in the deaths of six workers. Since then, there has been ongoing public debate over poor construction practices and safety management issues.