A tragic factory collapse this morning at the Seoul-Sejong Highway construction site, located near Anseong City, has left three workers dead and several others injured. The incident occurred around 9:50 AM on February 25, 2025, resulting in multiple casualties as crews worked to complete the bridge by the scheduled deadline.
Witnesses reported hearing loud noises when structural elements above them began to give way. According to the South Korea Fire Agency, the collapse happened during the handling of heavy machinery, leading to nine workers being trapped under the debris. Rescuers quickly responded to early reports of the disaster, mobilizing extensive firefighting and search resources.
By 10:15 AM, the situation was elevated to the national fire mobilization order, indicating the high risk of casualties and the need for additional resources from surrounding areas. Emergency response teams with intensive rescue capabilities were called to assist; 49 fire trucks and more than 171 responders were despatched to the scene.
Acting Prime Minister Choi Sang-mok, who was briefed about the situation, directed authorities including the Ministry of Administration and Safety, and the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport to devote all available resources to the recovery operation and search for missing workers.
Local sources indicated the workers were engaged with girder operations on the bridge when the catastrophic failure occurred, potentially connected to the structure's integrity during the construction process. Investigations are currently underway to determine the exact cause of the collapse.
Statements from witnesses reveal the horrific moment when the girder collapsed. One witness stated, “I was driving right underneath the bridge when it started shaking. Then,” they described, “there was this loud noise and everything fell.” Eyewitness accounts have been integral for investigators assessing what led to this tragic accident.
Authorities have confirmed one more worker may still be trapped. Subsequent searches are being carried out, but officials warn there may be additional fatalities as some of the injured have serious conditions. Mechanical failures during heavy lifting may be investigated as contributing factors.
Choi emphasized, “The safety of our workers must be our highest priority. We will fully investigate what led to this disaster to prevent future tragedies.” The incident shines light on the rigorous safety standards required at construction sites nationwide.
Meanwhile, families of the workers are receiving assistance and regular updates about the rescue efforts. Many have gathered near the site, anxiously awaiting news about their loved ones. The mood remains tense as rescuers work against the clock to find any remaining survivors.
This incident raises pressing questions surrounding the enforcement of construction safety regulations and the preparedness of emergency responses for large-scale accidents like this one. The investigation will likely lead to inquiries on existing oversight and protocols within the South Korean construction sector.
From initial reports of the tragedy, it is evident the swift actions of local fire teams and construction company response teams are critically important. Continuing updates will follow as investigations progress, and efforts continue to locate any potential trapped workers.
Public safety inquiries will extend beyond immediate rescue operations to include long-term safety practices on construction sites, especially as South Korea progresses with extensive infrastructure projects such as the Seoul-Sejong Highway.
Rescue operations remain underway, and the community rallies to support both the victims and their families as they cope with the aftermath of this devastating accident.