Good morning, fellow Koreans,

Many precious lives have been lost because of the recent catastrophic earthquake in Japan. It was an act of nature beyond human control. As soon as a memorial altar was set up in the Embassy of Japan in Seoul, I went there to convey my deepest sympathy to the Japanese people. Once again, I would like to express my heartfelt sympathy and condolences.

As those who have suffered are our close neighbors, my heart aches and the sadness is all the more poignant. I believe all peoples around the world should join in mourning the victims and helping those in great need. During my recent visit to the United Arab Emirates, I spoke by phone to Prime Minister Naoto Kan and expressed my condolences. I also promised that Korea, its nearest neighbor, would be the first country to come to the aid of Japan.

Prime Minister Kan told me that Korea’s offer of aid was the first among those from other countries and that the Japanese people were moved and grateful. On that very day, more than 100 rescue workers were sent to Japan, and they are still carrying out dedicated rescue efforts there at this moment.

Fellow Koreans,

I know that many people are now worried about whether we might be affected by the problems at the nuclear power plants in Japan. First and foremost, I can assure you that you do not have to worry.

The radiation released from Japan’s nuclear plants has not had any impact on Korea up to now. Better yet, domestic and international experts are of the common opinion that the radioactive elements cannot be carried off by the wind to Korea regardless of its direction. Please do not be swayed by unfounded rumors or unscientific speculations about a nuclear fallout.

Watching the recent crisis surrounding the nuclear plants in Japan, many people came to harbor concerns over the safety of domestic nuclear power plants. Last Friday, I joined the most renowned specialists in the construction of nuclear plants and safety from home and abroad and had an intense discussion. 

According to those experts, the domestic nuclear power plants were designed taking into account the biggest possible earthquake that could occur in the nation and on top of that included additional earthquake resistance capacity. Up until now, not a single case that could be classified as an accident has occurred, further proof that we have the best safety practices in the world.

Notwithstanding, the situation in Japan has to serve as a clear reminder of the necessity to thoroughly examine domestic plants. The Government has already launched a comprehensive check on all plants in a bid to ensure public safety even in the worst situation. The findings are being made public in a transparent manner.

The Ministry of Education, Science and Technology and the Korea Institute of Nuclear Safety have completed the first round of the emergency inspection, which affirmed that there were no problems. We will continue to conduct in-depth examinations. Experts also agreed to take safety to new heights in all aspects, including upgrading the safety regulations manual.

While the root cause of a disaster may lie with nature, if it is coupled with human errors and inattentiveness, it becomes more disastrous, increasing the damage. We now have advanced science and technology. Still, a failure to pay due attention to every single nut and bolt could cause a large-scale accident, wreaking gigantic havoc on the social system.

The science and technology that was developed for human convenience and safety can in fact menace our safety. This reality is referred to as a risk society. I am keenly aware, indeed, that the basic obligation of the state is to overcome the danger and maintain public safety. In the administration of state affairs, the Government will faithfully keep the principle that the safety of the people has the highest priority.

Meanwhile, this tragic earthquake in Japan, the citizens’ high standard of civic awareness and conduct, as well as the way the Japanese press reported this disastrous situation, have many lessons for all of us. In the extreme conditions threatening their survival, the Japanese people shared water and food with each other. In order to prevent further damage from radiation leaks, some people dashed to the dangerous scenes risking their own lives. A government worker was swept away by the tsunami while making an announcement about the emergency evacuation. The international press praised the discipline, considerateness and devotion that the Japanese citizens demonstrated, saying that it represented the evolution of the human spirit.

At the same time, I was very proud of the way our nation responded to the disaster in Japan. From ancient times, we Koreans have had the beautiful tradition of selflessly helping our neighbors in adversity. Elementary school children, business people, Korean Wave stars and so many other Korean citizens are voluntarily collecting relief funds or sending messages of comfort to the Japanese people. Through this tragedy, I believe that the two nations will become much closer to each other.

It is my earnest hope that the Japanese people will acquire the needed strength to quickly overcome their current calamities.

Thank you very much.