Young people already under chronic stress now face collective trauma, underlining need for universal mental health care
The deaths of 158 people in the Itaewon crowd crush have left an indelible mark on the psyche of the South Korean people in many ways. Beyond the immediate tragedy of losing so many young lives, the heartbreaking stories reveal a looming mental health crisis, and tackling it must become a top priority for the Yoon administration.
However, the government initially decided to use the word “accident” instead of “disaster” or “crush” when describing the incident. The government’s position was that Itaewon is a popular tourist destination, and it didn't want to impart “a bad reputation” by referring to the incident as a “disaster.”
The deaths of 158 people in the Itaewon crowd crush have left an indelible mark on the psyche of the South Korean people in many ways. Beyond the immediate tragedy of losing so many young lives, the heartbreaking stories reveal a looming mental health crisis, and tackling it must become a top priority for the Yoon administration.
However, the government initially decided to use the word “accident” instead of “disaster” or “crush” when describing the incident. The government’s position was that Itaewon is a popular tourist destination, and it didn't want to impart “a bad reputation” by referring to the incident as a “disaster.”
Get 30 days
of free access to
KoreaPro
Full access to all analysis
The KOREA PRO newsletter, every business day
Daily analysis on the top story of the day
The ability to suggest topics for coverage by our specialist team
Be smart about South Korea
Get full access to expert analysis and opinion.
Start now
No charges during your trial. Cancel anytime. A paid subscription will start after 30 days.