South Korean President Lee Jae-myun published a post on his social media over Hong Kong fire in three languages on November 28, 2025. Photo: Screenshot from Facebook

 
South Korean President Lee Jae-myun and Foreign Minister Cho Hyun on Friday voiced profound sorrow and solidarity in Korean, Chinese and English in response to the fatal high-rise apartment fire that struck Hong Kong's Tai Po district this week, causing heavy casualties.

In a trilingual social media message , Lee conveyed his sorrow. "The massive fire in Hong Kong has resulted in a great loss of life, leaving the Republic of Korea and the world in deep sorrow," he wrote. "I extend my deepest condolences and heartfelt sympathy to our neighbors in the region upon hearing the tragic news."

Lee extended prayers for the deceased and condolences to grieving families, expressing hope for swift recovery and reconstruction "standing in solidarity." He also commended the hundreds of firefighters, rescue workers and volunteers working tirelessly on-site, stating his "profound respect" for their efforts. The president concluded with wishes for the injured to recover quickly and for the missing to return safely.
 
Echoing the president's sentiments, South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Hyun also took to social media to share his sympathy. "Together with the people of Korea, I was deeply saddened to learn of the tragic fire," Cho stated, emphasizing his and the deep grief felt in Korea over the significant loss of lives.

"On behalf of the Korean government and people, I extend my sincere condolences and heartfelt sympathies to the victims and their families," he added. "We hope the people of Hong Kong find the strength to overcome this difficult time."
 
As of Friday, the fire has left 128 dead with 79 injured, Hong Kong security chief Chris Tang said. While 110 of the 467 missing persons have been resolved, the condition of approximately 200 people remain unknown, Tang told at a press conference on Friday. 

Rescue operations concluded on Friday amid challenging conditions. Messages of support from international leaders continue to pour in as Hong Kong works to address the aftermath of this deadly fire incident.