SEOUL – On Saturday, October 29, a massive influx of young people celebrating Halloween in Seoul’s vibrant Itaewon district led to a tragic incident, resulting in the deaths of at least 153 individuals. This year’s festivities marked the first Halloween celebration without restrictions in three years, drawing a large crowd eager to enjoy the lively bars, nightclubs, and restaurants.
As revelers, many dressed in Halloween costumes and some still in their teens, flocked to the area, the narrow and steep backstreets of Itaewon became perilously crowded. The once festive atmosphere turned grim as the large gatherings posed significant safety risks.

Just a day prior, warning signs emerged regarding the dangerously high number of attendees. A Reuters witness reported seeing large crowds at a Halloween street fair, where booths featured face-painting, candy, and costumes, indicating the overwhelming draw of the event.

While there was no formal event organized to attract such a large number of partygoers, social media posts highlighted various Halloween promotions at popular nightclubs, including collaborations for special performances, which may have contributed to the gathering.

Authorities are currently investigating the causes behind the crowd surge, as videos and eyewitness accounts show throngs of people cramming into the streets for several blocks around the alley where the tragedy unfolded. Among the deceased are at least 22 foreigners, highlighting the international appeal of Itaewon’s Halloween celebrations.