The Chinese government expressed condolences over the Daejeon Anjeon Industries fire that left 14 people dead.
Lin Jian, Spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of China, said at a regular briefing on the afternoon of the 23rd, "We learned that a recent fire in Daejeon, Korea, caused multiple casualties," adding, "We express our deep condolences to the victims and extend our sincere sympathies to the families of the victims. We hope the injured will recover as soon as possible."
According to authorities, at about 1 p.m. on the 20th, a large fire broke out at the factory of Anjeon Industries, an auto parts manufacturer located in the Daedeok Industrial Complex in Daejeon. The fire killed 14 people and injured 60.
Investigators, noting that several deaths occurred in the factory gym that is suspected to have been illegally expanded, are examining Anjeon Industries for alleged violations including the Building Act. It is also reported that the factory had stored a large amount of sodium and had been notified by the fire authorities of a violation of the Hazardous Materials Control Act, which is now part of the investigation.