Seosomun overpass collapses in Seoul, killing three

A tragic collapse at a demolition site in Seoul has claimed the lives of three workers, including the site manager, and injured three others. The incident occurred on May 26, 2026, when a section of the Seosomun overpass in Seodaemun-gu suddenly gave way during demolition work.

The overpass, a key structure connecting parts of central Seoul, was undergoing demolition which was slated for completion by the end of July. The collapse happened during a safety inspection that was initiated after a defect, a 2.9cm drop, was detected in the structure earlier in the day during slab cutting operations, leading to a temporary halt in work.

Tragically, the deceased were reportedly inside a narrow space between the slab and scaffolding, conducting the inspection, when supporting structures failed. The collapse also impacted train services, with operations on the Gyeongui-Jungang Line suspended. The incident has led to a temporary suspension of election campaigns by Seoul mayoral candidates, who visited the site.