Hankook Tire continues local clean-up after Daejeon plant fire

By 25 April, Hankook Tire & Technology had received more than 2,000 complaints from local residents, businesses and farmers related to the fire that broke out at its Daejeon tyre plant on 12 March. In a statement issued today, the company indicates its intention to provide compensation as soon as possible for those complaints that are “closely related to the fire incident and can be proven.” Hankook Tire is also engaged in clean-up activities and repairing public facilities in order to “restore daily life” in the local area.

Immediately after the fire, employees of Hankook Tire employees and other volunteers began working to remove dust and debris from affected apartment complexes and residential areas. Work such as cleaning exterior walls, air conditioner filters and windows is covered by insurance in most cases, while Hankook Tire is footing the bill for other expenses, such as accommodation, cleaning and car washing.

Hankook Tire is engaged in clean-up activities and repairing public facilities (Photo: Hankook Tire)

Damage repairs to public buildings such as schools have been partially completed, with cleaning and playground renewal at 17 kindergartens and schools ongoing. Volunteers also mobilised water trucks to wash roads in nearby apartment complexes, residential areas, main roads and back roads for over a month.

“Immediately after the fire, we have made it a priority to use all means at our disposal to help residents recover from the damage caused by the fire,” said Jung-rok Yoon, head of Hankook Tire’s Daejeon plant. “We will continue to communicate with the residents of the affected areas to ensure that they are as satisfied and understanding as possible.”