VATICAN CITY – In a poignant appeal for remembrance and truth, bereaved families of the October 29 Itaewon crowd crush tragedy met with Pope Leo XIV at the Vatican on May 21 (local time). The families urged the Pontiff to remember the victims and assist in their quest for answers regarding the devastating incident that claimed 159 lives.

Kang Sun-yi and Lee Sung-hwan, parents of Lee Sang-eun, one of the victims, were present at St. Peter's Square for the Pope's first general audience since his recent enthronement. Typically, the Pope holds general audiences for the public every Wednesday morning, unless special events are scheduled.

During the meeting, Pope Leo XIV reportedly inquired if the families were from Korea and listened intently as Ms. Kang held his hand. He also bestowed a blessing upon a banner featuring photographs of the victims that the families had brought.

Ms. Kang tearfully implored the Pope, stating, "Please watch over the souls of the 159 individuals, including our Sang-eun, who lost their lives in the October 29 Itaewon tragedy, and help us, the parents, find the truth of that day." The families presented the Pope with a purple ribbon and a star-shaped badge, symbols that have become synonymous with the Itaewon tragedy and the ongoing efforts for justice.

The 10.29 Itaewon Tragedy Bereaved Families' Association and the Citizens' Countermeasures Committee confirmed the meeting, adding that Cardinal Lazarus You Heung-sik, Prefect of the Dicastery for the Clergy, also conveyed his blessings upon hearing of the families' visit to the Vatican and their audience with the Pope.

The Itaewon tragedy, which occurred on October 29, 2022, saw a massive crowd surge in a narrow alley during Halloween festivities in Seoul's Itaewon district. The incident led to a tragic loss of life and injuries, sparking widespread grief and calls for accountability in South Korea. Since then, the bereaved families have been persistent in their demands for a thorough investigation, official apologies, and measures to prevent similar disasters in the future. Their visit to the Vatican marks a significant moment in their continued efforts to bring awareness to their plight and seek international support for their cause.