Mourning period for victims of Seoul tragedy runs until November 5

The national period of mourning for the victims of the Halloween festivities in Seoul runs from Sunday (30) to November 5.

At least 151 people died in an incident in the Itaewon neighborhood of Seoul, South Korea, on Saturday night. The riot took place in a narrow alley, caused by overcrowding. People got crushed and fell into each other.

During the period of mourning, all public institutions and diplomatic offices will half-raise flags, South Korean Prime Minister Han Duck-soo said on Sunday, adding that all non-urgent events will be postponed.

Civil servants and employees of public institutions will use tapes to express their condolences during the mourning period, Han added.

State to provide funeral and psychological support to victims and families

The South Korean government will provide support and a fund for the families of those killed and injured in a crowd during Halloween festivities in Seoul, Prime Minister Han Duck-soo said on Sunday.

The riot in Itaewon district killed at least 151 people, including 19 foreigners, and injured 82 others.

The South Korean government “will operate a funeral support team and fully respond to the treatment of the injured” together with the Ministry of Health and Welfare, Han said. Psychological treatment for families and the injured will also be provided, the prime minister added.

The government “will actively consult with diplomatic offices to ensure there is no lack of support,” Han said.

“Our country has a history of overcoming disasters with all citizens united in one mind,” Hand said, adding, “I sincerely ask all people to come together so that we can overcome sadness and rise again.”