President Lee Jae Myung has expressed deep respect and gratitude to firefighters throughout the country.

The president conveyed the sentiments in a social media post on Sunday as the nation marked the 63rd Firefighters’ Day, emphasizing that when firefighters protect the people, the nation will in turn protect them.

Lee said citizens can feel safe thanks to the dedication of firefighters, who throw themselves into flames and unstable debris to save lives on the principle of “first in, last out.”

The president vowed to work for better working conditions for firefighters, fair compensation, and stronger institutional support to protect their lives and health, adding that the nation will fully honor their noble dedication.

He reflected on firefighters currently doing their best at disaster sites across the country, saying he prays that they will always return home safe.

Finally, he said the government will never forget the sacrifice of firefighters who have died in the line of duty and offered his deepest condolences to their families.