Seosomun Overpass Intersection Reopens July 11th After Collapse Repairs

Vehicle traffic is set to resume at the Seosomun overpass intersection at midnight on July 11th, marking the reopening 46 days after a structural collapse. The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, and Transport confirmed the decision on July 10th, following the completion of demolition work on the damaged Seosomun overpass.

The collapse occurred on May 26th, prompting the immediate establishment of a central accident recovery headquarters (CARH) by the ministry. Through nine rounds of inter-agency meetings, a recovery plan was implemented. Emergency restoration efforts allowed for the resumption of train services on the Gyeongui Line between Sinchon and Seoul Station by May 30th. The sequential demolition of remaining bridge piers concluded on July 5th.

Following the final demolition phases, the ministry, in collaboration with the Seoul Metropolitan Government, Korea Railroad Corporation (KORAIL), and Korea National Railway, conducted final safety checks for rail, vehicle, and pedestrian traffic. The successful completion of these checks paved the way for the intersection's reopening. To enhance ongoing safety management at the intersection, the number of stationed intersection managers will be increased from two to four.