On 27 October 2023, the U.S. Embassy in Seoul issued an alert, which reads in part as follows: “As we observe the one-year anniversary of the Itaewon tragedy, the Embassy would like to notify U.S. citizens of expected large public events in the Itaewon, Myeongdong, and Hongdae areas of Seoul on Saturday, October 28. A memorial march is also scheduled from Itaewon to Seoul City Hall on Sunday, October 29 from 15:00 to 17:00, with a memorial gathering to follow at City Hall.
“Local police and firefighters plan to deploy in large numbers throughout Itaewon, Hongdae, Myeongdong, and other areas of central Seoul from October 27 until November 1 as crowds celebrate Halloween, commemorate the Itaewon tragedy, and engage in demonstrations.
“Korean authorities also anticipate large gatherings in Dongseong-ro in the southeastern city of Daegu. Increased crowd control measures will be in effect there as well.”
