A tragic bridge collapse at a highway construction site in Cheonan, South Korea, has claimed the lives of at least four people, including two Chinese nationals, according to local authorities.
The accident occurred at 9:49 a.m. when five 50-meter steel structures supporting a highway bridge collapsed sequentially after being hoisted into place by a crane. The sudden collapse not only resulted in the fatalities but also left six others injured, with five in critical condition.
Dramatic footage aired by local broadcaster YTN showed a section of the towering bridge crumbling to the ground, sending shockwaves through the community in Cheonan, located south of the capital, Seoul.
The Chinese Embassy in South Korea confirmed the involvement of two Chinese workers among the deceased. Embassy officials visited the site to express condolences and urged the South Korean authorities to thoroughly investigate the cause of the collapse and ensure proper medical treatment for the injured.
In response to the disaster, South Korean officials have called for the mobilization of all available resources to rescue any missing individuals and to implement safety measures to prevent further incidents. “We are committed to uncovering the reasons behind this tragic event and will do everything in our power to support the victims and their families,” an official statement read.
The incident has raised concerns over construction safety protocols in the region, prompting discussions about stricter regulations and oversight on such projects.
