President Lee Jae-myung on the 26th met with bereaved families of public officials who died in the line of duty while responding to various disasters such as large fires and wildfires, and said, "We will make a country that responds with treatment worthy of sacrifices for the state and the community, a country where dedication to the people returns as pride and honor, and we will repay you."
On this day, Lee invited the bereaved families of those who died in the line of duty to Cheong Wa Dae for a luncheon and said, "Our administration will uphold the principle that special compensation should be given for special sacrifices made for everyone." Thirty-five family members of public officials who died in the line of duty while performing high-risk jobs, including police, firefighters, military civilians, and the Korea Coast Guard, attended.
Lee said, "People say it is hard to find a country as safe as Korea anywhere in the world," adding, "The reason the Republic of Korea has become such a safe country today is thanks to those who have quietly dedicated themselves to protecting the lives and safety of the people—especially the sweat, effort, sacrifice, and dedication of many public officials."
He continued, "Thanks to noble dedication that goes beyond simple job performance, all of our Republic of Korea citizens enjoy a peaceful daily life today," and added, "On behalf of the people, I express gratitude and respect to those who stood at the forefront to carry out the role of the state in response to the urgent and earnest calls of the people."
All along, Lee has repeatedly emphasized the principle of "special compensation for special sacrifice" at public venues, including Cabinet meetings. At the luncheon that day, Lee also said, "For sacrifices made for a better life, safety, and life of the members of the state, the entire community should, with special attention and affection, offer honors and compensation commensurate with the special sacrifice," adding, "I believe that is the duty of the state and the way to repay noble sacrifices."
Lee said, "No words of consolation can ease the pain of the bereaved families," but added, "As eyewitnesses who watched more closely than anyone, I hope you will at least keep the pride and dignity that the courage and love of the fallen protected our neighbors and the people."