Top 5 Strategies to Prevent Construction Accidents: Expert Tips from Park Chang-geun

Park Jin-hyung | 2026.05.01

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「Featuring: Park Chang-geun, Director, National Land Safety Management Institute」 Warm spring weather brings more outdoor activity and an uptick in construction projects, which heightens the need for vigilance around safety. Today we speak with Park Chang-geun, Director of the National Land Safety Management Institute—an affiliate of the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport—about safety issues. 「Question 1」 At this time of year, safety oversight often takes place outdoors. What are the Institute’s core responsibilities in managing construction, facility, and underground safety? 「Question 2」 I’ve heard construction-site accidents have declined recently. Is that correct? 「Question 3」 It’s reassuring that accidents are decreasing. Sustaining that trend will be critical—what policy measures do you believe would lead to a significant, lasting reduction in accidents? 「Question 4」 Construction accidents are down overall, yet the investigation into the Sinansan Line collapse suggests that poor workmanship remains an issue. What specific steps can prevent substandard construction practices? 「Question 5」 Ground subsidence has become a growing public safety concern. What are the primary causes, and what prevention measures are being prepared? 「Question 6」 I understand the Institute also implements green remodeling projects as part of Korea’s carbon-neutral strategy. What do those projects involve in practice? 「Question 7」 Looking ahead, what are the key initiatives you plan to advance during your term? That was Park Chang-geun, Director of the National Land Safety Management Institute. For Yonhap News TV story inquiries or tips: KakaoTalk/LINE jebo23, Park Jin-hyung (jin@yna.co.kr)