Democratic Party of Korea lawmaker Boo Seung-chan [Yonhap]
Democratic Party of Korea lawmaker Boo Seung-chan [Yonhap]

Democratic Party of Korea lawmaker Boo Seung-chan has apologized for remarks he made during a national audit session about the burden local governments bear for fire department finances.

Boo posted an apology on Facebook on Tuesday, saying he was "sincerely sorry to the firefighters and citizens who were hurt" by his comments at Monday's national audit of Gyeonggi Province.

"As a politician whose every word carries heavy responsibility, I failed to show the careful conduct expected of me," he said. "As someone who once wore a uniform, I deeply reflect on my failure to show proper respect to those who dedicate themselves to protecting the lives and safety of the people at this very moment."

He added that he would "take the lead in strengthening the state's responsibility so that firefighters can carry out their duties safely and their dedication is given the recognition it deserves."

During the National Assembly's Land, Infrastructure and Transport Committee audit of Gyeonggi Province on Monday, Boo made the remarks in connection with comments by Gyeonggi Province Governor Choo Mi-ae about fire department finances being a "straw" on local budgets. Boo said that although firefighters are national civil servants, local governments cover about 90 percent of their budget costs, adding, "Isn't that just sucking the finances dry?"

In response, Democratic Party leader Kim Min-seok issued Boo a stern warning and ordered the party's central ethics tribunal to launch an ex officio investigation into the circumstances of the remarks.


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