Firefighter calls netizen's complaint about valley access restrictions 'nonsense'

A 현직 소방관 (current firefighter) and author has sharply rebuked a netizen who complained about government restrictions on valley access during recent heavy rains. The netizen expressed frustration, stating that being unable to visit a valley for leisure with family felt like a loss of freedom. They argued that the water levels were not dangerously high and questioned the government's authority to prohibit access.

“

This time of year, we frequently go out on rescue missions, and half of them are to retrieve people who have long since drowned in the water.

Responding via social media, the firefighter, identified by the pen name 백경 (Baek Gyeong), stated that this time of year frequently involves rescue missions for individuals swept away by swollen valley waters. He described the harrowing experience of rescue teams diving into muddy torrents to recover bodies and the constant sounds of desperate calls from families searching for loved ones.

"If you had ever heard those voices, you wouldn't be spewing nonsense about losing freedom or living in a communist state just because access to a flooded valley is restricted," Baek Gyeong wrote. He acknowledged the value of freedom but sarcastically questioned if the freedom to die was what people desired. He urged those who might lose someone in an accident not to blame others unfairly.

“

If you had ever heard those voices, you wouldn't be spewing nonsense about losing freedom or living in a communist state just because access to a flooded valley is restricted.

The firefighter's comments resonated with many online users who agreed that valleys can be extremely dangerous. Baek Gyeong is also the author of an essay collection titled 'You Are More Precious,' which draws on his experiences as a firefighter. The book was previously recommended by former South Korean President Moon Jae-in.

“

Freedom? Yes, freedom is good. If you want to call the freedom to die at will freedom, then do so. But please don't blame innocent people after losing someone dear.