A special investigation commission has recognized two deceased firefighters who responded to the 2022 Itaewon crowd crush as official victims. The firefighters, Nam and Park, suffered from PTSD and died by self-harm, bringing the total number of official victims to 162.
This development expands the official count of victims from the Itaewon crowd crush, acknowledging the severe psychological toll and tragic consequences faced by first responders, and highlighting ongoing efforts to provide recognition and support for those affected by the disaster.
A special investigation commission has officially recognized two deceased firefighters as victims of the deadly 2022 Itaewon crowd crush. The firefighters, identified by the surnames Nam and Park, were among the first responders to the incident that claimed 159 lives during Halloween festivities.
The commission determined that the two firefighters suffered from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and died by self-harm due to a lack of adequate support. This recognition increases the total number of official victims of the tragedy to 162.
Previously, a business owner who had assisted in rescue efforts on the night of the crowd crush and also suffered from PTSD was recognized as an official victim. The Itaewon crowd crush occurred on October 29, 2022, in a narrow alley amid insufficient safety measures.