President Lee Promises Justice: New Team to Investigate Itaewon Tragedy

President Lee Jae Myung has ordered the formation of a joint investigation team comprising police and prosecutors to uncover the full truth behind the 2022 Itaewon crowd crush, the presidential office announced Thursday.

Lee made this commitment during a Wednesday meeting with the bereaved families of various social disasters, including the Itaewon tragedy, which claimed 159 lives during Halloween festivities in 2022.

Regarding the Itaewon tragedy, Lee stated that the truth of the incident has not been properly revealed due to various reasons, according to presidential spokesperson Kang Yoo-jung.

Lee acknowledged the frustration among bereaved families concerning the limited authority of the special investigation committee, which can only conduct inquiries. He expressed willingness to consider granting the committee compulsory investigative powers if necessary.

The Office of the Presidential Secretary for Civil Affairs has begun reviewing the matter, Kang informed reporters. She added that a detailed plan will be developed following the review. (Yonhap)