Labor Minister: No safe site in weapons manufacturing; probe into Hanwha blast promised

Labor Minister Kim Young-hoon acknowledged the inherent dangers in the defense industry, stating, "There is no less dangerous workplace when manufacturing weapons." His remarks came as authorities prepared for a joint on-site investigation into the fatal explosion at Hanwha Aerospace's Daejeon plant.

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There is no less dangerous workplace when manufacturing weapons.

Kim, who previously worked as an engineer, shared a senior colleague's saying: "A brush against it means severe injury." He emphasized that even minor mistakes can be fatal in such environments. He added on social media, "A thorough investigation will be conducted to fulfill our duty to the living," using the hashtag #KDefenseSafety, highlighting the importance of safety in the defense sector, which handles hazardous materials.

The explosion occurred in a cleaning facility at the Hanwha Aerospace plant in Daejeon, claiming five lives and injuring two others. This incident marks the third fatal explosion at the facility since 2018, with a total of 13 workers killed across the previous incidents.

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I always remember my senior's words, 'A brush against it means severe injury.' This is because even a small mistake can be fatal.

Following the blast, the Ministry of Employment and Labor dispatched senior officials and formed a dedicated 20-person investigative team. This team is tasked with scrutinizing the company's adherence to safety protocols for handling hazardous substances and its compliance with the Serious Accidents Punishment Act. Minister Kim had previously visited the site to inspect the aftermath and direct a comprehensive investigation.

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A thorough investigation will be conducted to fulfill our duty to the living.