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UPDATE: Polish president, PM, FM offer condolences after deadly stampede in South Korea

31.10.2022 00:30
Poland's president, prime minister and foreign minister have expressed their condolences after at least 153 people were crushed to death during Halloween celebrations in the South Korean capital Seoul.
Revelry turned into tragedy: At least 153 people were crushed to death in a stampede during Halloween celebrations in the South Korean capital Seoul on Saturday, October 29, 2022.
Revelry turned into tragedy: At least 153 people were crushed to death in a stampede during Halloween celebrations in the South Korean capital Seoul on Saturday, October 29, 2022.Photo: EPA/JEON HEON-KYUN

Polish President Andrzej Duda said in a message that South Korea "has suffered an unimaginable tragedy."

He added: "During this difficult time, I grieve with the people of South Korea. My thoughts and prayers go out to all the victims and their loved ones. May the good Lord give them comfort."

Poland's Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki tweeted: "Terrible news from Seoul about the deaths of so many people. In the name of the government I offer my deepest sympathy to the South Korean authorities. We pray for the victims, their loved ones and the whole Korean nation, which today experiences one of its darkest days."

Polish Foreign Minister Zbigniew Rau said in a tweet: "Deep and sincere expressions of sympathy to the people of the Republic of Korea for the tragedy that took place in Seoul."

Rau added: "Poland and the Republic of Korea share deep ties of friendship. We are with you in these difficult times."

At least 22 foreign nationals from 13 countries were among those killed in the deadly stampede in Seoul's Itaewon district, a popular nightlife area, the Reuters news agency reported.

Those killed in the disaster on Saturday night included people from China, Iran, Russia, the United States, Australia, Uzbekistan, Vietnam, Kazakhstan, Austria, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Norway and France, Reuters reported, citing South Korea's Yonhap news agency.

South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol declared a period of
national mourning on Sunday.

Polish Deputy Foreign Minister Jacek Sasin, who was in Seoul for talks with South Korean officials on nuclear power, told reporters that there were no Poles among the victims.

Sasin said in a tweet: "I extend my deep condolences to the families of those who died during the tragic events in Seoul."

He added that the Polish embassy in South Korea "confirmed that no Poles were hurt."

"I join the South Korean people in their grief," Sasin also said.

The Polish embassy in Seoul lowered its flags to half-staff to honour the victims of the tragedy, according to officials.

(gs)

Source: PAP, Reuters