Families Demand Answers as Probe into Itaewon Crowd Crush Kicks Off

South Korea’s Supreme Prosecutors’ Office announced Wednesday the formation of a joint investigation team, comprising prosecutors and police, to probe the Itaewon crowd crush.

This move comes two weeks after President Lee Jae Myung promised the bereaved families of the Itaewon tragedy victims that he would establish a separate task force to thoroughly investigate the 2022 Halloween crowd crush that claimed 159 lives.

The joint investigation team will re-examine all aspects of the incident, including its causes, rescue efforts, authorities’ responses, and potential secondary damage experienced by survivors and victims’ families.

According to Yonhap News, about 20 personnel will be assigned to the team, which will be led by the Supreme Prosecutors’ Office’s criminal affairs department.

A spokesperson for the Supreme Prosecutors’ Office emphasized the need for swift and thorough action, noting the prolonged suffering of victims and their families.

“The Itaewon tragedy is a matter of significant national concern regarding both facts and accountability,” the spokesperson stated. “Uncovering the truth is essential to address ongoing social controversy and prevent further harm to the families affected by this tragedy.”

The team will also evaluate potential shortcomings in the country’s disaster response system.

While a special independent investigation committee was formed in September to examine the Itaewon crowd crush, it faced criticism for lacking investigative authority, which limited its ability to determine the facts of the case.

“Much of the information has not been provided to the National Commission for the Investigation of the 10.29 Itaewon Disaster,” a representative of the bereaved families said during a meeting with President Lee at Cheong Wa Dae on July 16. “The government must disclose all records from the day of the tragedy, including inter-ministerial communications and on-site directives. Uncovering the truth is the very least we can do to honor the memory and dignity of those lost in this incident.”