On February 25, 2025, disaster struck during construction of the Seoul-Sejong expressway as part of the highway bridge collapsed, resulting in multiple fatalities and injuries. The incident occurred at approximately 9:49 AM local time at the construction site near Cheonan, located about 80 kilometers south of South Korea's capital, Seoul.
Eyewitness reports indicate the collapse involved at least five steel girders, each spanning 50 meters, which failed as workers were attempting to position them using cranes. Initial estimates from local media suggested at least 3 workers had died, but according to the National Fire Agency of Korea, the confirmed toll stands at 2 deceased and 5 injured, with some of the injured reportedly in serious condition.
The rescue efforts shifted quickly onto the scene, spearheaded by 53 firefighters from 18 units who joined the frantic search for additional missing individuals believed to be trapped beneath the rubble. Reports suggest as many as ten workers could be entangled under the debris, raising alarm among local authorities and families alike.
Acting President Choi Sang-mok has been vocal about the tragedy, stating, “We must mobilize all available resources for rescue efforts.” His directives have led to the involvement of various governmental agencies, including the Ministry of Interior and Safety, the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport, as well as National Police and local government officials. Together, they have been coordinating operations to expedite rescue efforts.
Footage from the scene revealed shocking moments as the girders gave way and clouds of dust engulfed the area, catastrophic for the men working beneath the bridge at the time. The construction site was clearly active with numerous workers on-site, their safety compromised by the failure of infrastructure elements intended to support their tasks.
Authorities have also mentioned their concern about the rising number of construction site accidents, with over 8,000 fatalities reported from labor-related incidents between 2020 and 2023—an alarming statistic prompting renewed discussions around safety standards within the industry. While the investigation of this specific incident is still underway, it has already highlighted long-standing issues within South Korea's construction sector.
Choi Sang-mok has called for stringent reviews of safety protocols and regulations following such disasters. The need for clarity on what led to the bridge's failure is urgent, as it not only involves accountability but could significantly influence safety legislation across the industry.
The Seoul-Sejong expressway project is seen as significant, with portions having already been completed and the entire express route scheduled to reach operational status by year-end 2026. It spans 134 kilometers with sections passing through both urban and rural areas, highlighting the importance of maintaining public expectations for safety alongside swift construction timelines.
Given the nature of the accident and the tragic outcome, local news agencies and authorities are prioritizing transparency as they continue to investigate the causes behind the mishap. The country waits, balancing grief for the victims against the pressing need to reform the safety landscapes under which such dangerous work occurs.
South Korea, known for its rapid development and strong construction industry, faces questions not just on the individual project level, but on the integrity of its broader systems intended to protect workers on-site. For now, families of the victims demand answers, and the nation reels at the loss of life amid what was meant to be progress and prosperity.