Korean Prime Minister Han Duck-soo receives questions at a meeting with foreign correspondents at the Press Center in Seoul over the Itaewon tragedy in this photo provided by Han's office, Nov. 1. Yonhap

Prime Minister Han Duck-soo issued an apology Wednesday for making a quip at a media briefing with foreign journalists with regard to the Halloween crowd crush in Itaewon.

"Regardless of the circumstances, I apologize for making people feel uncomfortable," Han said in a statement.

During the media briefing Tuesday, Han was asked what is "the beginning and the end" of the government's responsibility over the tragedy that left at least 156 people dead.

Han replied that the government will not avoid responsibility for the disaster, saying the government should take unlimited responsibility for the lives and safety of the people.