World leaders have been sending messages of condolences and support to South Korea amid an apparent surge in crowds in Seoul’s Itaewon district that killed at least 149 people during Halloween festivities.
Philip Seth Goldberg, the U.S. ambassador to South Korea since 2022, tweeted in English and Korean: “I am shocked by the tragic loss of life in Itaewon last night. Please Know my thoughts, and the thoughts of our team at the U.S. Embassy in Seoul, with the people of South Korea, especially the loved ones of those killed in this catastrophic event, and the many injured.”
British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak tweeted: “Our thoughts are with those currently responding and with all South Koreans at this very distressing time.”
“France is on your side,” President Emmanuel Macron tweeted in French and Korean.
German Chancellor Olaf Schultz tweeted: “We are all shocked by the tragic events in Seoul. Our thoughts are with the many victims and their families. This is a sad day for South Korea. Germany Be on their side.”
The Australian government has also sent a message of support.
“Our sincere condolences go out to all those affected by this terrible tragedy,” the prime minister said. Anthony Albanese Tweet.
The Australian embassy in Seoul said it was “urgently conducting an investigation” with local authorities to determine whether any Australians were involved.