Archbishop Peter Soon-taick Chung of Seoul on Monday called on Koreans to remember the lives lost in the Itaewon tragedy and to work toward greater safety and compassion as the nation marks its second anniversary.
“The harrowing incident, which unfolded two years ago, inflicted indelible shock and sorrow with the loss of invaluable lives. The memory of each victim, whose life was of unique significance, is one we are committed to preserving perpetually,” the prelate said.
On the night of Oct. 29, 2022, a devastating crowd surge occurred during Halloween celebrations in Seoul’s Itaewon district. The incident, described by the South Korean government as one of the country’s most tragic, claimed 159 lives and injured 196 others.
Among those who lost their lives were two individuals who succumbed to their injuries after the event, with the majority of victims being young adults, including 27 foreign nationals.
Reflecting on the sorrow caused by the tragedy, Archbishop Chung urged society to build a community that respects the safety and dignity of each person.
“This tragedy underscores the importance of fostering a community where the safety and dignity of every member are safeguarded,” he said.
He urged both government officials and citizens of their shared responsibility to prevent similar incidents.
“It is our hope that our society remains vigilant in fulfilling its obligations to prevent a recurrence of such calamities. Let us cultivate a compassionate and caring community characterized by solidarity and empathy,” he said.
The prelate emphasized the Church’s commitment to standing with families of victims and survivors, pledging support as they cope with their grief.
“Together with our parish community, we pledge to listen attentively to the voices of those affected, to accompany them through their journey of grief, and to keep the victims in our prayers,” he said.
Across South Korea, memorial events marking the Itaewon tragedy include vigils and services attended by families, survivors, and the public.
These gatherings honor the victims’ memories and address calls for stronger public safety measures.
The Itaewon tragedy raised questions about crowd control and sparked ongoing debates on public responsibility and safety policies.
“As responsible members of society, we fervently wish for a future unmarred by such tragedies, and we resolve to keep the memory of the Itaewon tragedy alive in our collective consciousness,” said Archbishop Chung.
The Itaewon tragedy stands as South Korea’s deadliest crowd crush and is considered the worst national disaster since the sinking of the MV Sewol ferry in 2014.
In Seoul, it marked the highest mass casualty event since the 1995 collapse of the Sampoong Department Store.
The incident surpassed a 1959 tragedy at Busan Municipal Stadium, where 67 people were killed in a similar crowd surge.
