South Korea's budget chief pledges review of firefighter funding gaps

During a press briefing in Sejong, Budget Minister Park Hong-geun pledged a thorough review of the financial structure supporting South Korea's firefighters. The move follows Governor Choo Mi-ae's claim that fire services have become a fiscal drain on regional authorities. Park acknowledged that detailed internal talks have not yet taken place and that the assessment will be coordinated with the presidential office, the interior ministry, the fire agency and municipal governments.

He emphasized the state's duty to ensure safe conditions for those serving the public. Park also addressed concerns about the upcoming Future Fund, asserting it will not become discretionary cash for the government and will be managed lawfully with taxpayer money. The minister highlighted the need for a balanced approach that secures both profitability and stability amid rapid AI-driven industrial changes.