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Seoul Marks Somber Anniversary of Halloween Crush Tragedy

Family and friends of the 159 victims who lost their lives in last year’s Halloween crush in Seoul came together on Sunday to mark the first anniversary of the devastating event. The tragic incident occurred amidst Halloween celebrations in the bustling Itaewon nightlife district, predominantly affecting individuals in their 20s and 30s.

Thousands of attendees participated in a solemn march through the streets, culminating in an emotional moment as the victims’ names were solemnly recited, accompanied by the heartfelt declaration, “We’ll remember you.”

Emotions ran high as Song Jin Young, the father of one of the victims, expressed his grief and remorse, saying, “I’m sorry. I’m sorry that I couldn’t protect you. I loved you.”

Cho Mi-eun, who lost her 24-year-old son in the crush, shared her struggle with depression, revealing that she had been unable to properly mourn his passing. “As time goes by, my sadness only deepens, my longing grows, and my anger also seems to deepen,” she confided.

During the commemoration, attendees raised their voices in a call for a more heartfelt apology from South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol, chanting “Apologise! Apologise!” However, it was reported that President Yoon attended a service for the victims at a church in Seoul rather than the memorial ceremony organized by the families.

In a speech at the church, Yoon acknowledged the profound sadness shared by the nation, stating, “This day last year was the saddest day of my life, and I believe everyone in South Korea feels the same way as me.”

To honor the anniversary, families visited the Itaewon area, while attendees collectively demanded the resignation of Safety Minister Lee Sang-min over the disaster.

In January, a police special investigation revealed that authorities had anticipated a large turnout for Halloween but failed to implement effective crowd control measures. The investigation also disclosed that concerned pedestrians’ hotline calls about the growing crowds had been ignored by the police.

Though over 20 police officers and officials are reportedly facing trial in connection to the tragedy, no top-level officials have been held accountable thus far. Both the families of the victims and opposition lawmakers have called for an independent investigation into the incident.

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