Prosecutors Summon and Question Kim Gwang-ho, Seoul Police Chief, Over 'Itaewon Disaster'

by Choi Seoyoon

Published 03 Apr.2023 19:09(KST)

Kim Kwang-ho, Commissioner of the Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency, was investigated by the prosecution on charges of professional negligence causing death and injury in connection with the Itaewon disaster. This is the first time Commissioner Kim has been summoned by the prosecution.

On the 3rd, the Seoul Western District Prosecutors' Office announced that Commissioner Kim was summoned as a suspect on the 1st and questioned.

As the highest-ranking official responsible for public safety in the Seoul area, Commissioner Kim is accused of anticipating large crowds in the Itaewon area through the 'Halloween Festival-related Report' but failing to establish safety management measures for mass gatherings, which led to an increase in the number of casualties on the day of the disaster.

In relation to this, the prosecution conducted multiple searches of Commissioner Kim's office and the 112 situation room.

Kim Kwang-ho, Commissioner of Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency [Photo by Yonhap News]