Infrastructure – Seoul Authorities Intensify Probe After Deadly Overpass Collapse
Infrastructure – South Korean authorities have expanded their investigation into the partial collapse of a major overpass in western Seoul, carrying out searches at several government and private-sector locations linked to the demolition project. The move comes as officials work to determine what caused the accident that left multiple people dead and injured earlier this week.
Investigation Expands Across Multiple Locations
On Friday, police officers conducted coordinated search and seizure operations at seven different sites connected to the demolition work. Among the locations targeted were offices belonging to Seoul’s infrastructure administration and companies responsible for carrying out the dismantling project.
According to the Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency, the operation forms part of an ongoing inquiry aimed at collecting documents, digital records, and other evidence that could help investigators identify the factors behind the structural failure.
Joint Effort Between Police and Safety Officials
The investigation is being supported by a large team of officials, including police investigators and workplace safety specialists from the labor ministry. Authorities said the coordinated effort is focused on establishing a clear timeline of events and determining whether any negligence or procedural failures contributed to the collapse.
Officials are also reviewing construction and demolition practices used at the site to assess whether all required safety standards were properly followed during the project.
Labor Ministry Reviews Safety Compliance
The Ministry of Employment and Labor announced that it will conduct a detailed examination of workplace safety measures that were in place before the incident. The ministry stated that any violations of occupational safety regulations would be addressed through strict legal action.
Government representatives emphasized that ensuring accountability remains a key priority as the investigation progresses.
President Calls for Swift Action
The incident has drawn attention at the highest levels of government. President Lee Jae Myung urged authorities to complete a thorough investigation without delay and called for firm action against anyone found responsible for recent public safety failures.
His comments came amid growing concerns about infrastructure safety and oversight following several accidents reported in recent months.
Collapse Occurred During Safety Inspection
The overpass partially collapsed on Tuesday afternoon while officials were conducting an on-site safety review. Earlier that day, demolition activities had reportedly been suspended after workers noticed signs suggesting a slight movement within the structure.
Despite the precautionary halt, a section of the overpass later gave way, resulting in three fatalities and injuries to three other individuals.
Evidence Collection Underway
Investigators moved quickly after the collapse, carrying out an immediate inspection of the area. Police have since secured surveillance footage recorded around the time of the accident and are examining the material as part of their analysis.
Authorities believe the footage could provide important insights into the sequence of events leading up to the structural failure.
City Government Pledges Cooperation
Seoul city officials said they are fully cooperating with investigators and remain committed to identifying the exact cause of the collapse. In an official statement, the city administration pledged support for all investigative efforts and expressed its determination to prevent similar incidents in the future.
The overpass, originally constructed in 1966, had been undergoing demolition since August due to concerns regarding its long-term structural safety. The dismantling project was expected to be completed next month.
Meanwhile, labor authorities approved a revised plan allowing demolition work to resume on Thursday evening. City officials aim to finish removing the remaining structure by early Saturday.