The federal government is scrambling to determine whether any Australians were killed or injured in a stampede in South Korea that killed at least 151 people and injured dozens more.
On Saturday night, a large throng enjoying Halloween in the capital city of Seoul rushed into an alley in a prominent nightlife area frequented by young people, foreigners, and tourists.
At least 151 individuals were killed in the mob crush, 19 of whom were claimed to be foreigners whose nationalities have not yet been disclosed by police.
The Australian embassy is contacting local authorities immediately to see if any Australians were involved.
Catherine Raper, ambassador to the Republic of Korea, asked family members back home to check on loved ones who had been to the country.
She tweeted, “We ask all Australians in Seoul to check in with friends and family to let them know where you are.”
Minister of Workplace Relations Tony Burke stated that he was unaware of any Australians involved in the incident.
It is unsettling to see this narrative unfold as it has. Our embassy representatives are highly trained and will work to establish communication,’ he said.
It appears likely that the current death toll will increase in the near future.
Sunday, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese sent his condolences to South Korea.
He tweeted, “Our profound condolences to everyone affected by this horrible event.”
In the melee that broke out in the Itaewon neighborhood of Seoul at 10:30 p.m., an additional 82 individuals were injured, several of them severely.
It was the first Halloween celebration in Seoul in three years, following the removal of Covid-19 restrictions and social isolation.
Many of the partygoers wore Halloween masks and costumes. Most were teenagers or young adults in their early twenties who had spent the most of the previous three years in seclusion.
Yongsan Fire Station Chief Choi Sung-beom told Reuters that several of the victims were women in their twenties.
Australians concerned about the welfare of loved ones in Seoul can call the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade Consular Emergency Centre on 1300 555 135. Those outside Australia can call +61 2 6261 3305