The death toll from Friday's fire at Anjeon Industry's car parts plant in Daejeon has risen to 14, with all previously missing workers accounted for, as President Lee Jae-myung visited the site Saturday, pledging a full probe and preventive measures amid 58-60 injuries.
The blaze at the Daejeon plant, which broke out Friday afternoon and took over 10 hours to extinguish, has now claimed 14 lives—all of the individuals previously reported missing—along with 58 to 60 injuries, including two firefighters. The fire originated in a second-floor rest area during lunchtime, fueled by oil residue, dust, and an initial explosion, with 200kg of sodium adding risks and smoke hindering evacuations.
National Fire Agency Commissioner General Kim Seung-ryong offered condolences and committed to identifying the cause and preventing recurrences. Plant head Sohn Ju-hwan apologized, vowing full responsibility and victim support.
On Saturday, President Lee Jae-myung inspected the site, reviewed relief efforts, met bereaved families—promising regular updates on the investigation and relief—and visited injured workers at a hospital. His office spokesperson Kang Yu-jung said he urged preventive actions. In a social media post, Lee pledged a thorough cause investigation, fundamental prevention measures, an on-site chief, family involvement in the probe, and coverage of urgent costs.
