South Korean firefighter releases tribute video for fallen colleague

Na Gyeong-jin, a firefighter and YouTuber known as ‘Firefighter Uncle,’ released a symbolic tribute video to honor the late Fire Lieutenant Kim Jin-seok, who died in the line of duty during a factory fire in Bucheon, Gyeonggi Province.

The video, titled ‘Straw,’ features Na replacing a yellow straw in a glass of water with a single white chrysanthemum. The silent tribute has gained significant attention online, particularly as it is perceived as a response to recent controversial remarks regarding firefighting budgets.

Previously, Gyeonggi Province Governor Choo Mi-ae and lawmaker Boo Seung-chan faced criticism for describing firefighting expenses as a ‘financial straw’ that drains local government budgets. Following the death of Lieutenant Kim, the Fire Service Union held a press conference demanding a formal apology, increased budget allocation, and accountability for those responsible for the fatal incident.