POSCO E&C Takes Strong Action Against Series of Fatal Accidents

President Lee Jae-myung has directed that strong punitive measures be considered in response to a series of fatal accidents at POSCO E&C construction sites.

According to the Presidential Office on the 6th, President Lee has instructed relevant ministries to examine measures such as the revocation of construction licenses and a ban on public bidding.

Kang Yoo-jung, spokesperson for the Presidential Office, stated during a briefing at the Yongsan Presidential Office that "the President has directed a thorough verification of compliance with manuals by POSCO E&C, which has experienced consecutive fatal accidents, and ordered a detailed investigation to determine whether these were preventable incidents."

This is interpreted as showing a commitment to strengthen safety management in industrial sites and hold corporations accountable.

Strengthening Safety Management and Holding Corporations Accountable

The spokesperson emphasized further review of punitive measures to prevent recurrence of industrial accidents, stating, "I have instructed to find and report all legally possible options, including revocation of construction licenses and bans on public bidding," and added, "I have directed a review of additional punitive measures, such as punitive damages, to ensure that such industrial accidents do not recur." This indicates consideration of strong measures that could directly impact corporate management activities, beyond simple administrative actions.

The President’s instructions are reported to have been communicated to relevant ministries around 10:45 AM.

The series of fatal accidents at POSCO E&C construction sites can be seen as a reflection of social demands to raise awareness of industrial safety and strengthen corporate safety management responsibilities.

Image source: POSCO E&C Songdo Headquarters / News1, President Lee Jae-myung / Photo courtesy of the Presidential Office.