Firefighters Demand Fair Compensation Amidst Challenging Conditions

Firefighters deployed to combat wildfires have expressed their frustrations regarding inadequate compensation for their hazardous work. A firefighter, identified as A, shared his experience of responding to the tragic Jeju Air incident at Muan Airport last December and battling wildfires in Gyeongbuk this March. He recounted the harrowing task of transporting victims' remains and working tirelessly with minimal rest during the firefighting efforts. Despite his pride in saving lives, A highlighted the unreasonable treatment firefighters face, particularly the meager 3,000 won ($2.50) compensation they receive for each emergency response, a rate that has remained unchanged for over a decade.

A pointed out that the additional pay for firefighting and rescue operations, known as the 'firefighting and rescue response allowance' (출동가산금), is insufficient compared to the intensity of their work. The allowance, set at 3,000 won per incident, has not been adjusted for inflation or the increased demands of the job. Furthermore, the monthly hazard pay remains at a mere 70,000 won ($58). A's recent pay stub revealed he earned only 15,000 won in response allowances for multiple incidents, which he described as feeling like a 'machine spraying water and fighting fires.'

Despite the government's acknowledgment of the need for increased compensation, discussions to raise the response allowance to 4,000 won have yet to yield results. The Ministry of the Interior and Safety has stated that they are considering adjustments, but no concrete actions have been taken.

Moreover, even after the transition of firefighters from local to national civil service status four years ago, many argue that their working conditions have not improved significantly. Local governments still control budgets and administrative decisions, leading to disparities in treatment and resources across regions. Firefighters continue to face challenges such as inadequate equipment and inconsistent pay, with some regions offering significantly less than others.

As frustrations mount, firefighters like A and his colleagues are calling for meaningful changes to their compensation and working conditions, emphasizing that their lives are on the line every time they respond to an emergency. They hope for a future where their sacrifices are recognized and rewarded appropriately.