Hanwha Aerospace Explosion: Joint Investigation Intensifies Search for Ignition Source

A comprehensive joint investigation is underway to determine the cause of the fatal explosion at Hanwha Aerospace's Daejeon facility, which resulted in seven casualties. The investigative team, comprising the National Forensic Service, Daejeon Police Agency, fire authorities, and the Occupational Safety and Health Agency, is meticulously examining the site.

Investigators are concentrating on the cleaning process area within Building 56, the suspected origin of the blast. Their focus is on precisely identifying the ignition source and location by conducting detailed examinations of the machinery involved and meticulously searching through the debris for any clues. This follows a preliminary investigation on June 2nd that also aimed to pinpoint the origin but failed to establish a definitive cause.

The absence of CCTV footage at the accident site has complicated efforts to reconstruct the events leading up to the explosion. However, police are analyzing external CCTV footage that captured Building 56 to gather more information. Concurrently, a criminal investigation is proceeding to establish accountability.

Legal action is being taken against key personnel. Hanwha Aerospace CEO Son Jae-il is being investigated for alleged violations of the Severe Accidents Punishment Act, while Daejeon facility head Ga Jae-woong faces charges related to violations of the Occupational Safety and Health Act. Ga Jae-woong has also been criminally charged with causing death and injury through professional negligence. The investigation has involved the seizure of over 5,400 pieces of evidence from Hanwha's headquarters and R&D campus, along with the analysis of six mobile phones belonging to関係者. Travel bans have been imposed on Son, Ga, and three other Hanwha Aerospace officials.