Firefighter Dispatched To Itaewon Halloween Tragedy Found Dead Days After Going Missing

One of the firefighters who responded to the Itaewon Halloween tragedy has been found dead after disappearing earlier this month. Police confirmed that his body was discovered 10 days after he was reported missing.

Authorities revealed that the man in his 30s, was located around 12:30 PM under a bridge on the Capital Region First Ring Expressway in Siheung, Gyeonggi Province. His death comes nearly two years after he took part in the large-scale rescue efforts during the tragic Itaewon crowd surge in 2022.

Following that night, the firefighter reportedly began struggling with depression. He received ongoing psychological support, including 12 counseling sessions through programs provided by the National Fire Agency. Despite these efforts, his condition had remained a concern to those around him.

Police had been searching for him since August 10, when he was reported missing from Dongan District in Anyang. His disappearance sparked concern among colleagues and family, who were aware of the difficulties he had faced since the Itaewon tragedy.

The Itaewon tragedy, which left over 150 people dead during Halloween celebrations in 2022, also had a lasting impact on first responders who were on the scene. Many firefighters, police officers, and medical staff who worked that night have since reported symptoms of trauma, stress, and depression.

While investigations are ongoing, police confirmed that the man had shown signs of psychological struggles tied to his experience during the disaster. His death has once again drawn attention to the long-term toll the Itaewon tragedy has had, not only on the victims and their families but also on those who risked their lives to save others. May he rest in peace.