Political statements that influence key policies and budgets should never be taken lightly. Such remarks can shape policy direction and significantly affect public perception. This is especially true when addressing firefighters, who protect the lives and safety of citizens. The tragedy of a firefighter who died in the line of duty, leaving behind a young daughter, underscores the need for careful consideration.
Choo Mi-ae, the Governor of Gyeonggi Province, sparked controversy with her comment referring to firefighters as a "financial straw" and later issued an apology that only fueled further debate. During her visit to the funeral of firefighter Kim Jin-seok, who died while battling a fire at a factory in Bucheon, she stated, "I sincerely apologize because you asked for an apology." This phrasing could imply reluctance to apologize. Even within her party, there were criticisms regarding the inappropriateness of her comments. Comparing firefighters, who risk their lives, to a financial burden was misguided and raises questions about her qualifications as a regional leader and her public ethics.
An apology should begin with acknowledging one's mistakes rather than making excuses. Although Choo apologized again during a National Assembly audit on the 19th, she did not adequately explain why her earlier statement was inappropriate. An apology is not a platform for justifying one's intentions; it is a process of recognizing the pain inflicted on others and taking responsibility. What the bereaved families and fellow firefighters need is not a feeble explanation but a sincere apology and a commitment to prevent future incidents. The responsibility for hurting those who protect the lives and property of citizens must be taken seriously.
However, the issue of firefighter funding should not be overshadowed by the controversy surrounding her remarks. Firefighters transitioned to national status in 2020, yet their funding remains heavily reliant on local governments. Last year, the national budget accounted for only 10.7% of the total firefighting budget, and the national share of firefighter salaries was just 8.6%, amounting to approximately 6.3 trillion won. While Gyeonggi Province's firefighter salary expenses are projected to rise from 1.1 trillion won next year to 1.5 trillion won by 2030, the firefighting safety grant for this year has decreased by 3.1 billion won to 134.8 billion won. As the demand for firefighting services and personnel costs increase, it will become increasingly difficult to manage these solely through local finances.
Despite the transition to national status, the government's financial responsibility remains inadequate. Although their status has changed to national, the actual financial burden still lies with local governments. Even with the establishment of a special firefighting fund, the structure requiring local governments to cover a significant portion of the costs has not changed. To fulfill the responsibilities that come with national status, the central government must secure stable funding and expand national support. Simply changing the status of firefighters to national while leaving the financial burden with local governments cannot be considered a complete transition.
Firefighting is not a financial drain but a necessary investment in protecting the lives and safety of citizens. While it is important to consider financial efficiency, this should not come at the expense of undermining the dedication of those who risk their lives on the front lines. Choo must respond to the bereaved families and firefighters with a sincere apology and responsible follow-up actions. The government and political sphere must also clarify financial responsibilities to ensure that the transition of firefighters to national status is not merely nominal. Political statements must carry weight, and government commitments must be backed by budgets. Respecting those who protect the lives of citizens begins with heartfelt words and is completed through practical systems.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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