President Orders Probe into Missing Rebar on GTX-A Subway Line

The recent discovery of missing rebar in a crucial support pillar for the GTX-A line's Samseong Station has understandably caused alarm, prompting President Lee Jae-myung to issue a direct order for a comprehensive investigation and stringent safety checks. This incident, involving a major infrastructure project, raises serious questions about construction standards and oversight. The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport's confirmation that rebar was installed in a single row instead of the mandated double row in a key pillar is a significant lapse.

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There is a responsibility and duty for the government to examine the safety of the site in terms of preventing large-scale safety accidents, considering the upcoming rainy season and various situations.

What is particularly concerning is the timeline of events. The construction error was identified in April, yet it was only recently that the full extent of the problem and the need for further verification of reinforcement plans became clear. The Ministry's subsequent decision to audit the Seoul Metropolitan Government and Korea National Railway underscores a recognition that project management itself was flawed, especially given the considerable delay in reporting the issue. This delay is unacceptable when public safety is at stake.

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The adequacy of the reinforcement plan requires meticulous verification by a credible institution, and the appropriateness of the entire structure under construction and the entire construction process requires additional inspection.

From our perspective, this situation demands more than just a technical fix. It calls for a deep examination of the entire construction process, from design and material procurement to on-site execution and quality control. While international coverage might focus on the engineering aspect or potential project delays, here in South Korea, the immediate concern is the safety of citizens who will use this vital transportation link. The President's decisive action signals a commitment to ensuring that such oversights are not repeated and that the integrity of our infrastructure projects is paramount. This is not just about concrete and steel; it's about public trust and the government's fundamental duty to protect its people.

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We have determined that there are problems with project management, including the fact that the report was made long after the error was recognized. We launched an audit on May 15 against the Seoul Metropolitan Government and Korea National Railway.