President Lee Jae-myung Orders Review of Punitive Actions, Including Revoking POSCO E&C Construction License

President Lee Jae-myung has officially instructed his administration to consider strong legal actions—including the possible revocation of POSCO E&C’s construction license—in response to a series of recent fatal accidents at the company’s sites.

Kang Yu-jeong, spokesperson for the Presidential Office, announced on August 6 that President Lee, currently on vacation, issued directives demanding a meticulous review of whether established safety manuals were followed and if the accidents could have been prevented. The President emphasized the need to thoroughly examine all aspects related to the incidents.

In particular, President Lee requested a report exploring every legal option available under current laws, such as revoking construction licenses and restricting participation in public bids for the company.

Spokesperson Kang further relayed the President’s supplementary directive to closely review additional punitive measures—including the introduction of punitive damages—in order to eradicate recurring industrial accidents.

Previously, during a cabinet meeting on July 29, President Lee commented on the series of incidents by stating, “A fifth fatal industrial accident has reportedly occurred at POSCO E&C this year.” He underscored the severity of the situation, saying, “The reality is that five people have lost their lives while at work.”

He also stressed at the meeting, “Repeated fatal accidents of the same nature ultimately amount to condoning these deaths,” adding, “To put it bluntly, it borders on intentional homicide due to gross negligence.”

Note “This article was translated from the original Korean version using AI assistance, and subsequently edited by a native-speaking journalist.”

Photo=Presidential Office, Yonhap News