Seoul Police Chief Charged Over 2022 Halloween Crush

Kim Kwang-ho Faces Negligence Charges for Failing to Deploy Adequate Police Force During Deadly Incident

Seoul's chief of police, Kim Kwang-ho, has been charged with negligence over the 2022 Halloween crush in Itaewon that resulted in the death of 159 people.
Kim is the highest-ranking police official to be charged in relation to the tragedy, accused of failing to ensure there were enough officers in Itaewon on the night of the incident.
The charges come more than a year after the incident, which saw over 100,000 people gather in the area for Halloween celebrations.
The victims' families have welcomed the charge but expressed regret over the lengthy decision-making process before Kim was charged.
If convicted, Kim could face up to five years in prison or a fine of up to $15,000.