On April 11, 2025, a construction site in Gwangmyeong, Gyeonggi Province, south of Seoul, became the scene of tragedy when a collapse led to the disappearance of at least two workers. This incident occurred during the ongoing construction of the Sinansan subway line, which has raised significant safety concerns among local residents and authorities alike.
The collapse is not an isolated event. Just two days prior, on April 9, residents in the area had expressed alarm over the continuous reports of sinkholes developing in various parts of the city. In fact, the city of Gwangmyeong had already issued an evacuation order for approximately 2,300 residents living near the construction site due to fears of further subsidence. The alarming trend of sinkholes has prompted schools in the vicinity to close, with one elementary school deciding to shut its doors for two days, from April 14 to 15, out of concern for the safety of students.
As of April 13, large sinkholes had begun to appear in both Busan and Seoul. A particularly large sinkhole measuring 5 meters in width, 3 meters in length, and 4.5 meters in depth was reported at a subway construction site in the Hakjang Ward of Sasang District, Busan. Additionally, another sinkhole with a diameter of 40 cm and a depth of 1.3 meters was found near exit 2 of Aeoge Station in the Ahyeon Ward of Mapo District, Seoul. Fortunately, these sinkholes did not result in any casualties.
Experts have weighed in on the situation, noting that the emergence of sinkholes is a growing concern in South Korea, particularly in urban areas where construction projects are prevalent. Professor Gong Ha Seong from Woosuk University, who specializes in disaster prevention and safety, highlighted that while natural disasters can sometimes be predicted to a degree, sinkholes occur suddenly and are difficult to forecast. This unpredictability has led to heightened anxiety among residents, especially in areas undergoing significant construction.
According to data analysis from the city of Seoul, 63 sinkholes have appeared in the capital over the past three years, from March 2022 to March 2025. Notably, 19 of these incidents occurred in the affluent districts of Gangnam, Seocho, and Songpa, suggesting that approximately 30% of all sinkhole accidents in Seoul are concentrated in Gangnam alone. The prevalence of these sinkholes raises questions about the safety protocols in place at construction sites.
In the wake of the recent collapse at the Shin Ansan subway line construction site, it has come to light that concerns regarding land subsidence were flagged during an environmental impact assessment conducted seven years ago. Despite these warnings, the construction proceeded, highlighting potential lapses in oversight and safety measures.
The local government and construction authorities have been urged to take immediate action to prevent further incidents. Residents have expressed frustration over the lack of communication and transparency regarding safety measures and the risks associated with ongoing construction projects. Many are calling for a thorough investigation into the recent collapse and the overall safety protocols at construction sites across the region.
As the situation develops, authorities are focusing on rescue operations for the missing workers from the April 11 incident. Rescue teams have been deployed to the site, working tirelessly to locate the individuals. The emotional toll on families and the community is palpable, as hope for a safe return diminishes with the passing hours.
The recent surge in sinkholes and construction-related incidents has sparked a broader discussion about urban planning and the responsibilities of construction companies. With the rainy season approaching, fears are mounting that the frequency of such incidents could increase, further endangering lives and property.
In light of these events, residents are left questioning the safety of their neighborhoods and the integrity of construction practices. As the city grapples with the implications of these sinkholes, the need for rigorous safety standards and proactive measures cannot be overstated.
Moving forward, it will be essential for city planners and construction companies to address the concerns of residents and implement effective strategies to mitigate the risks associated with urban construction. Ensuring the safety of workers and local communities must be a priority, particularly as South Korea continues to expand its infrastructure.
As the rescue efforts continue, the community remains on edge, watching closely for updates on the missing workers and the government's response to the ongoing crisis. The recent incidents have underscored the fragility of urban infrastructure and the urgent need for comprehensive safety measures in construction projects.
In summary, the recent collapse at the Shin Ansan subway line construction site and the subsequent sinkholes across Busan and Seoul have raised serious concerns regarding construction safety and urban planning in South Korea. As the situation unfolds, the focus remains on the rescue efforts and the future implications for construction practices in the region.
