On April 16, 2025, residents of Seoul experienced a surge of anxiety as reports of sinkholes emerged near two subway stations, prompting road closures and emergency responses from local authorities. The incidents occurred during the evening rush hour, highlighting rising concerns over ground stability in the city.
At approximately 4:50 PM, a report came in regarding a suspected sinkhole near exit 4 of Apgujeong Station, located on subway line 3 in Gangnam-gu. However, upon inspection, police and fire department officials determined that the situation was not as alarming as initially thought. The so-called sinkhole turned out to be a minor subsidence of a temporary asphalt patch, measuring about 5 centimeters in depth and 60 centimeters in width. Thankfully, no injuries were reported.
Just ten minutes later, at around 5:00 PM, another report surfaced concerning a similar incident near exit 6 of Dogok Station, which is part of subway line 6 in Seongbuk-gu. Here, investigators also found that the reported sinkhole was, in fact, a pothole with a depth of 5 centimeters and a width of 50 centimeters. Consequently, one lane of traffic was closed to allow for repairs.
Both incidents led to temporary traffic disruptions, with authorities quickly moving to control the affected areas. The Seoul Northern Road Construction Office was on-site at Dogok Station, while the Eastern Road Construction Office responded to the situation at Apgujeong Station. By 7:00 PM, traffic controls were lifted as repairs were completed, and the roads were reopened.
These recent occurrences are particularly noteworthy given the backdrop of heightened public concern surrounding ground stability in Seoul. The community has been on edge following several incidents of ground subsidence, including a collapse at a construction site for the Sinansan Line in Gyeonggi Gwangmyeong and a sinkhole incident in Gangdong-gu. Such events have understandably heightened vigilance among citizens, leading to an increase in reports of ground issues, even those that might not pose a significant threat.
One local resident, Kim Kyung-min, who commutes through the area, expressed his unease, stating, "Traveling from home to work has become unsettling, and it’s made me more alert to my surroundings." This sentiment echoes the feelings of many who have been closely following the news of sinkholes and subsidence in the city.
Officials from the Seongbuk-gu Office noted that the pothole discovered at Dogok Station had been under repair since the morning of April 16, prior to the reports of a sinkhole. They speculated that the public's recent exposure to news about sinkholes may have contributed to the influx of reports from concerned residents mistaking the pothole for a more severe ground issue.
The confusion between potholes and sinkholes is a common occurrence, yet the term "sinkhole" tends to evoke a more significant fear due to its implications of sudden ground failure. Potholes, on the other hand, are typically less severe, resulting from wear and tear on road surfaces rather than a failure of the underlying ground structure.
In light of these events, the Seoul city government is taking steps to address the public's concerns. City officials are expected to conduct thorough inspections of areas where recent construction activities have taken place to ensure safety and to prevent further incidents. They are also working on public education campaigns to help residents differentiate between potholes and sinkholes, thereby reducing unnecessary alarm.
As the sun set on April 16, the immediate threat of sinkholes near Apgujeong and Dogok Stations had been resolved, but the broader issue of ground stability in Seoul remains a topic of concern. With ongoing construction projects and the city's aging infrastructure, residents and officials alike are left to ponder the potential risks that lie beneath the surface.
In conclusion, while the incidents at Apgujeong and Dogok Stations did not result in any injuries or significant damage, they serve as a reminder of the importance of vigilance and preparedness in urban environments. As Seoul continues to develop and grow, the balance between progress and safety will be crucial in ensuring the well-being of its citizens.
