A partial collapse of an aging overpass under demolition in Seoul killed three people and injured three others on Tuesday, officials said, in an accident that also disrupted nearby rail service.
Sections of the Seosomun Overpass gave way around 2:32 p.m., sending concrete and construction debris crashing to the ground. Two men in their 50s and 60s were initially killed at the scene, and a third victim later died from injuries, bringing the death toll to three.
Authorities said 12 workers were deployed to the site, and six were able to evacuate safely before or during the collapse. Officials believe a supporting structure may have failed shortly after safety inspections began earlier in the afternoon.
Falling debris also struck a nearby railway line, forcing the suspension of train operations between Seoul Station and Sinchon Station while emergency crews responded and secured the area. The overpass had been scheduled for full demolition by early next month.
Top government officials ordered a full investigation into the cause of the collapse and called for urgent measures to prevent similar accidents. Emergency response teams were directed to maximize rescue and medical efforts, while authorities worked to identify hospitals capable of receiving the injured and minimize further loss of life.
Officials also emphasized the need to protect rescue personnel and restrict access to the site as recovery operations continued.
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