At least 146 people have died after crowds gathered during Halloween celebrations in Seoul, South Korea
At least 146 people have died after crowds gathered during Halloween celebrations in Seoul, South Korea
World leaders condole: Death toll in Seoul Halloween crowd The increase continued beyond 30 October. About 150 people were killed and several others injured during Halloween celebrations in the South Korean capital, Seoul, officials said.
Choi Seong-beom, chief of Seoul’s Yongsan fire department, said the death toll could rise and that an unspecified number of injured were in critical condition after a stampede in Etawah on Saturday night.
He said the bodies were being sent to a hospital or gym, where the bereaved family members could identify them. He had earlier said that most of the dead and injured were in their 20s.
US President Joe Biden expressed his deepest condolences, describing the incident as tragic.
“Jill and I send our deepest condolences to the families of those who have lost loved ones in Seoul. We mourn with the people of the Republic of Korea and wish all those injured a speedy recovery,” he said to his wife, First Lady. Wrote referring to Jill Biden.
“The alliance between our two countries has never been more vibrant or more important – and the ties between our peoples are stronger than ever. The United States stands with the Republic of Korea during this tragic time.”
Responding to the “horrific news”, UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said, “All our condolences are with those currently responding and with all South Koreans at this very critical time.”
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau tweeted, “On behalf of the Canadian people, I am sending my deepest condolences to the people of South Korea today following a deadly stampede in Seoul.”
“I am thinking of all those affected by this tragedy and wish the injured a speedy and full recovery,” he said.
French President Emmanuel Macron offered France’s “heartfelt” support to South Korea.
“Heartfelt thoughts to the residents of Seoul and the Korean people after the tragedy in Itawan. France is with you,” Mr Macron said on Twitter.
Josep Borrell, High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, said in a tweet that he is deeply saddened by the terrible events in central Seoul.
“What was meant to be a celebration has turned into a tragedy with so many young casualties. We are with the people of the Republic of Korea in this difficult time.”
More than 1,700 response personnel from across the country were deployed on the streets to help the injured, including about 520 firefighters, 1,100 police officers and 70 government employees.
South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol issued a statement calling on officials to ensure speedy treatment of the injured and review the security of the festival sites.
It was the deadliest crushing disaster in South Korean history.
(with inputs from agencies)