South Korea is preparing for crucial hearings into the 2022 Itaewon crowd crush that claimed the lives of over 150 people. The special investigation committee will begin questioning officials on March 12th and 13th, nearly three years and five months after the tragedy. The hearings aim to establish a clear timeline of events and determine accountability for the disaster, with a particular focus on the government’s response.
Families of the victims, investigators from the special committee, and eyewitnesses are demanding a thorough examination of what went wrong, rejecting narratives that place blame on the victims themselves. They are seeking a full accounting of the “failures” in the national response and a commitment to preventing similar tragedies in the future. The hearings are taking place at a sensitive time, as the nation grapples with the lasting trauma of the event and seeks closure for the bereaved.
The 10.29 Itaewon 참사 특별조사위원회 (Special Investigation Committee) has summoned a number of high-ranking officials to testify, including former Minister of Public Administration and Security Lee Sang-min, former National Police Agency Commissioner General Yoon Hee-geun, and Yongsan District Office Mayor Park Hee-young. These individuals held key positions of authority during the disaster and will be questioned about their decisions and actions.
Much attention is focused on the testimony of former Minister Lee, with scrutiny surrounding allegations that the Ministry of the Interior and Safety delayed reporting the incident to him. Reports indicate that it took over an hour – from the first emergency call at 10:15 PM to a report reaching Lee at 11:19 PM – to inform the minister about the unfolding crisis, raising concerns about a delayed response that may have exacerbated the situation. Yonhap News Agency reported on this timeline in August 2025.
Eyewitness Accounts and Initial Response Concerns
Muhammad Shabir, a 31-year-old Pakistani national who was visiting Itaewon during the tragedy and provided emergency medical assistance, will as well appear as a witness. A nurse with ten years of experience, Shabir reportedly performed CPR on four individuals, potentially saving their lives. He has stated that the arrival of ambulances was significantly delayed, and that quicker intervention could have saved more people. He emphasized the importance of proactive safety planning for large events, stating that “it is inappropriate to blame the victims” for the disaster.
The initial response, or lack thereof, is a central concern for the families of the victims. Park Young-soo, the mother of Lee Nam-hoon, one of those who died in the crush, shared details from her son’s death certificate, indicating he was discovered by emergency services at 12:18 AM with a body temperature of 35 degrees Celsius. She believes that a faster response could have significantly increased his chances of survival. “I hope the witnesses will advise their stories truthfully,” she said.
Questions Regarding Local Government Preparedness
Kim Hyun-min, a 28-year-old investigator with the special committee, highlighted concerns about the preparedness of the Yongsan District Office. According to Kim, the office should have activated its disaster safety center, but on-duty staff were reportedly unaware of their responsibilities in such a situation. This raises questions about the adequacy of local government planning and response capabilities. Kim indicated that the hearings will explore previously unknown details regarding the initial actions – or inaction – of the Yongsan District Office.
Presidential Testimony and Calls for Accountability
Former President Yoon Suk-yeol, who was initially included on the witness list, has indicated he will not attend the hearings. This decision has prompted renewed calls from the families for his testimony. Song Hae-jin, a representative of the 10.29 Itaewon 참사 유가족협의회 (Itaewon Tragedy Victims Association), stated that while the causes of the tragedy may be revealed through audits, trials, and investigations, the families wish to hear directly from the individual who held the highest level of responsibility at the time.
The “별들의 집” (House of Stars), a memorial space established to honor the victims of the Itaewon tragedy, has become a focal point for remembrance and advocacy. The 10.29 Itaewon Family Association website details the space’s role in providing support to families and raising awareness about the disaster. Participatory Solidarity reports that the space is open to the public from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM, Tuesday through Saturday.
As the hearings begin, the nation awaits answers and accountability for the devastating events of October 29, 2022. The outcome of these proceedings will likely have significant implications for disaster preparedness and response protocols in South Korea. The focus now shifts to the testimonies of key witnesses and the committee’s ability to uncover the full truth surrounding the tragedy.
If you or someone you know is struggling with the aftermath of a traumatic event, resources are available. Please reach out to a crisis hotline or mental health professional for support.
