In Nov. 2023, South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol promised to enhance support for the welfare and safety of the nation’s firefighters, including advancements in disaster response. However, the deaths of two firefighters in a Mungyeong meat processing plant fire earlier this month highlighted a persistent challenge: the inadequacy of mental health support for first responders.

The issue of providing sufficient mental health services for firefighters in South Korea is highlighted by recent statistics from the National Fire Agency that show a significant number of firefighters are struggling with stress-related symptoms.