South Korea Observes Industrial Accident Victims' Day, Pledging Safer Workplaces

The recent designation of April 28th as 'Industrial Accident Victims' Day' marks a crucial step for South Korea in acknowledging its responsibility towards those injured or killed in the workplace. As the Hankyoreh has consistently argued, industrial accidents are not mere unfortunate incidents but societal failures that demand collective accountability. The commemoration serves as a vital reminder of the 1993 Thai garment factory fire, a tragedy that underscored the grave consequences of prioritizing capital over human life.

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Workplace accidents do not end with individual misfortune. One person's life stops, and a family's daily life collapses. Therefore, industrial accidents are not simple accidents but problems that our society must take responsibility for together.

While the government and the Korea Workers' Compensation and Welfare Service are organizing various events to honor victims and promote safety, the reality on the ground remains stark. Recent disasters, such as the fire at Daejeon Safety Industry, and the persistent dangers in high-risk sectors like construction and manufacturing, demonstrate that the fight for a safe workplace is far from over. Furthermore, the rise in occupational diseases, including cancer, and stress-related illnesses, points to a more complex and long-term challenge in safeguarding workers' well-being.

From our perspective at the Hankyoreh, the true measure of this day lies not just in remembrance but in tangible action. This means a fundamental shift from reactive measures to proactive prevention, recognizing safety not as a cost but as an essential investment. It also requires strengthening the social safety net to ensure comprehensive support, from swift compensation and rehabilitation to psychological care for victims and their families. The government's commitment to 'realizing state responsibility for industrial accident compensation' must translate into concrete policies that leave no worker behind.

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Safety is not a cost but a necessity, and it is the most valuable investment that guarantees the sustainability of a company and reduces social costs.

Ultimately, the right to work without injury is a fundamental human right. The state has a solemn duty to guarantee this right. This day should serve as a catalyst for building a society where every worker can return home safely, and where the sacrifices of those who built our nation are met with the respect and recognition they deserve. The Hankyoreh will continue to advocate for policies that uphold the dignity of labor and ensure a truly safe working environment for all.

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The right to work without getting hurt is a fundamental right guaranteed by the Constitution, and it is the responsibility of the state and society to protect that right.