South Korean President Lee Reaffirms State’s Duty To Protect People’s Lives, Safety
Lee reiterates the government’s responsibility to protect citizens’ lives and safety.
South Korean President Lee Jae Myung on Tuesday reiterated that protecting people's lives and safety is the primary duty of the state while attending a ceremony marking the opening of the country's first specialised hospital for firefighters and other first responders. The National Fire Hospital, located in Eumseong, North Chungcheong Province, is dedicated to addressing the healthcare needs of those working in emergency and disaster-response services.
Lee noted that firefighters and other first responders are at the forefront of protecting the public during accidents, disasters and other emergencies. He acknowledged their role in allowing people to continue their daily lives safely and peacefully, while stressing the importance of ensuring that those who protect others also receive adequate medical care and support.
The National Fire Hospital began operations in June and is designed to provide healthcare services to firefighters, police officers and their family members, as well as residents of the surrounding area. It will also conduct research focused on occupational health issues affecting first responders, including conditions associated with their demanding and potentially hazardous work.
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Addressing firefighters and other first responders at the opening ceremony, Lee expressed hope that the hospital would become a trusted medical facility capable of understanding and treating the specific health needs of emergency personnel. He also described the facility as an important regional public healthcare hub for North Chungcheong Province and pledged government support and investment for its development.
Lee later shared details about the hospital on social media, emphasising the physical and psychological challenges faced by firefighters who enter dangerous situations to save lives. He noted that the government has a responsibility to provide care for those who sustain lasting health consequences while serving the public and linked the protection of first responders to the broader responsibility of safeguarding the country.
The National Fire Hospital represents a dedicated healthcare infrastructure for South Korea's emergency personnel and their families. With specialised treatment and occupational-health research forming part of its mandate, the facility is expected to play a broader role in supporting first responders while also serving the wider community in the region.
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