President Lee: "On Industrial Accident Victims' Day, We Will Take Responsibility Until Recovery, Beyond Mourning"

President Lee Jae-myung's message on the occasion of the "Industrial Accident Victims' Day" resonates deeply within South Korea, a nation grappling with the persistent issue of workplace safety. Returning from state visits to India and Vietnam, the President's immediate focus on this critical domestic concern underscores its significance in his administration's agenda. His solemn vow to honor the memory of those lost and to ensure their recovery and safety speaks to a commitment that extends beyond mere commemoration.

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I deeply mourn all the workers who did not return from their workplaces on the occasion of Industrial Accident Victims' Day.

The President's emphasis on transforming the day from one of mourning to one of proactive safety and recovery is particularly noteworthy. This forward-looking approach aligns with the administration's broader goal of achieving "sustainable growth based on safety." The reported 17.5% decrease in industrial accident fatalities in the first quarter, while a positive sign, is tempered by the stark reality that South Korea still bears the unfortunate distinction of having the highest industrial accident death rate among OECD member nations.

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We will do our utmost to ensure that Industrial Accident Victims' Day becomes a day to pledge safety and talk about recovery, beyond mourning and remembrance.

This statistic serves as a constant, sobering reminder that the journey towards a truly safe working environment is far from over. President Lee's acknowledgment of this "familiar tragedy" where "only the people change" highlights the systemic issues that require continuous attention and reform. The pledge to mobilize all available means, strengthen legal and institutional frameworks, and establish new standards demonstrates a resolve to tackle the root causes of these accidents.

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The reduction in industrial accident deaths by 17.5% compared to the previous year in the first quarter, as detected in the field, is a result of multifaceted efforts by the government and cooperation between labor and management.

From a South Korean perspective, this issue is not just about statistics; it's about the dignity of labor and the well-being of its citizens. The narrative often contrasts the nation's economic achievements with its lagging safety record. President Lee's commitment to ensuring that growth is truly "sustainable" and contributes to national happiness, rather than being overshadowed by workplace fatalities, is a crucial message that aims to reshape this narrative and prioritize human life above all else.

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However, facing the weight of precious lives that could not be protected and the heart-wrenching cries of families and neighbors who have lost loved ones, we still have a long way to go.