President Lee: 'On that day, the state was absent... Commitment to truth and prevention'

On the fourth anniversary of the Itaewon tragedy, President Lee Jae-myung stated, "I will ensure that the state is never absent again, and that citizens do not suffer unjustly due to negligence." He made this commitment during a memorial speech at the 10·29 Itaewon tragedy remembrance ceremony.

President Lee remarked, "It has been four years since 160 lives were lost, and once again, October has arrived." He expressed his heavy heart, acknowledging that no words of comfort could suffice in the face of such profound loss and pain.

He pointed out, "On that fateful autumn night, which should have been joyful, the state was absent. The belief that the state would protect my life and that of my family was shattered."

In his tribute, President Lee honored the victims, noting that they left behind dreams unfulfilled and happiness that could have been shared with their families. He stated, "If the state had fulfilled its responsibilities, that day in Itaewon would have remained an ordinary day like any other."

He emphasized the state's accountability for the suffering endured by the victims' families, saying, "Instead of reaching out first, the state forced families to demand truth and accountability." He expressed deep gratitude and condolences to the families who have opened a new path toward a 'safe society' through their tears.

President Lee stressed that the dignity of the victims must never be violated again, nor should the state exacerbate the wounds of families living with their grief.

He explained that the government is focusing its national efforts on creating a safer country, including the enactment of a basic law on life safety.

He highlighted that "a complete investigation into the truth is the starting point for full healing," noting that the law related to the investigation of the Itaewon tragedy was amended last September, extending the special investigation committee's activities until September 2027.

President Lee promised to uncover the truth without leaving any questions unanswered and to ensure that the revealed truths lead to measures preventing future incidents. He affirmed, "The Republic of Korea after 10·29 must be different from the Republic of Korea before 10·29."

He vowed to ensure that the promises made today translate into tangible changes in the lives of the victims' families and the public.

Additionally, he stated, "I will fulfill the state's responsibility by ensuring that a family leaving for breakfast returns home safely in the evening. I will not forget. I will remember until the end."