[Press Release] Commission Launches Investigation into Deceased Itaewon Merchant Who Participated in Rescue Efforts

National Commission for the Investigation of the October 29 Itaewon Disaster
Press Release
May 19, 2026

Commission Launches Investigation into Deceased Itaewon Merchant Who Participated in Rescue Efforts at the Itaewon Disaster Scene

The Commission intends to examine the post-disaster hardships suffered by a deceased Itaewon merchant and the circumstances leading to his death following participation in rescue efforts at the October 29 Itaewon disaster scene.

The National Commission for the Investigation of the October 29 Itaewon Disaster and Prevention of Recurrence (the “Commission”) resolved, at its 58th plenary meeting on May 19, to launch an investigation into a case involving a deceased Itaewon merchant who participated in rescue efforts at the scene of the October 29 Itaewon disaster.

The case approved for investigation concerns an Itaewon merchant who participated in rescue efforts at the disaster scene and subsequently suffered psychological and physical harm due to trauma following the disaster, ultimately leading to his suicide.

After reviewing statements obtained from the bereaved family, the Commission determined that it was necessary to investigate the individual’s connection to the disaster and the circumstances surrounding his death, and therefore resolved to initiate the investigation.

Through this investigation, the Commission plans to examine the circumstances and rescue activities at the disaster scene; the onset of trauma-related symptoms following the disaster; and the circumstances leading to his death. //End//