Overpass collapse during demolition kills one, traps workers in western Seoul
One worker was killed and another in cardiac arrest after a section of the Seosomun overpass collapsed during demolition in western Seoul, trapping approximately six people beneath rubble. Rescue teams pulled four people from the site by Tu
SEOUL, South Korea — One person has been killed and another is in cardiac arrest after a section of an overpass collapsed during demolition works in western Seoul on Tuesday, trapping workers beneath the rubble.
The incident occurred at around 14:32 at the Seosomun overpass demolition site in Seodaemun-gu. Part of the road deck gave way while crews were carrying out demolition work, leaving an estimated six people and one demolition vehicle trapped underneath.
Emergency services reached the scene within six minutes. A Level 1 emergency response was declared shortly after, bringing 62 rescue personnel, 16 vehicles, and five additional ambulances to the site. Around 30 police officers were also deployed.
By Tuesday afternoon, four of those trapped had been pulled out. One died at the scene and another was found in cardiac arrest. Two people remained unaccounted for, with rescue teams still working to reach them.
The collapse forced a suspension of train services between Seoul Station and Sinchon Station, disrupting the Gyeongui Line and nearby routes, according to state railway operator Korail.
The incident cast a shadow over the city's upcoming mayoral race. Both frontrunners in the 3 June election halted campaigning and headed to the site. Prime Minister Kim Min-seok issued an emergency directive ordering all relevant agencies to maximise rescue efforts, identify nearby medical facilities, and ensure injured people were transported quickly to minimise casualties.
The Korea Herald reported that authorities have yet to determine the exact cause of the collapse.
