Seoul archbishop commenmorates Itaewon Tragedy victims on its 2nd anniversary

The archbishop of Seoul commemorated the victims of the Itaewon tragedy on its second anniversary.

“Two years ago, we experienced the shock and pain of losing precious lives. The lives of each victim were precious. We will never forget that memory,” wrote Archbishop Peter Chung Soon-taick in his message dated October 24.

On October 29, 2022, 159 people died in a crowd crush during Halloween festivities in the Itaewon district of Seoul, an area popular for its nightlife and restaurants.

The victims were mostly in their 20s or 30s.

“This tragedy reminded us of how important it is to maintain a community that protects each other's safety and dignity. I hope that our society will fulfil its responsibility to prevent such tragedies from happening and be reborn as a community that cares for each other with solidarity and consideration,” said the prelate.

Archbishop Chung also vowed to form a community to “be with the bereaved families until the end.” 

“As a citizen of the country, I earnestly hope that such a tragic tragedy will never be repeated, and I will never forget the Itaewon tragedy,” he also said.

On behalf of the archbishop, who is currently in Rome for the Synod, Father Choi Gwang-hee visited the House of the Stars Memorial Altar and met with members of the Itaewon Disaster Bereaved Family Council.

On October 28, a Mass was offered in memory of the victims at the St. Francis Educational Center in the Jung Dong district, as reported by Agenzia Fides.

During the Eucharistic celebration, the names of the victims were read in the presence of the parents, who wore purple clothes.