The head of Anjeon Industry in Munpyeong-dong, Daedeok-gu, Daejeon, where a large fire on the 20th left as many as 70 people dead or injured, offered an apology on the 21st.
On the company website that day, CEO Son Ju-hwan said, "I offer my deepest condolences and sincere apology to everyone who lost precious lives or was injured in this accident and to their families."
Son said, "The company is currently prioritizing the search for the missing and treatment for the injured in cooperation with the relevant agencies," adding, "We will fulfill our responsibility to provide the necessary support and restore the damage to be of real help to those affected and the bereaved families."
He continued, "We fully understand that no words can completely comfort the pain of this accident, and once again, I sincerely bow my head in apology."
He added, "I extend my deep gratitude to all the relevant agencies who are risking danger at the fire scene to manage the accident," and said, "We will faithfully cooperate with the authorities and thoroughly investigate the cause to swiftly implement corrective measures so that such an accident does not recur."
Earlier, at about 1:17 p.m. on the 20th, a fire broke out at the plant in Daedeok-gu, Daejeon. The number of people dead or injured has reached 70 so far.