SEOUL - In response to a worrying surge in ground subsidence incidents, commonly known as sinkholes, occurring near major excavation sites across South Korea, the national government has announced an immediate and comprehensive safety inspection initiative. The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport (MOLIT) revealed on Wednesday that it will conduct special inspections on 98 large-scale excavation projects nationwide by the end of the following month. This decisive action follows recent sinkhole occurrences in residential areas such as Myeongil-dong in Seoul and Iljik-dong in Gwangmyeong, which have heightened public anxiety regarding the safety of underground infrastructure and construction practices.

The announcement came during the 8th meeting of MOLIT's 'Underground Safety Management System Improvement Task Force (TF),' where the primary agenda focused on evaluating the current state of underground safety management and the preparedness of local governments in addressing ground subsidence. Representatives from major metropolitan areas including Seoul, Busan, and Gwangju are expected to present detailed reports on their responses to recent sinkhole events, in-depth analyses of the contributing factors, and outlines of enhanced management strategies.

Adding a layer of technical expertise to the discussions, the Korean Geotechnical Society will provide insights into its ongoing research aimed at improving the national underground safety management framework. The society is also expected to highlight areas where collaboration with local authorities is essential for the effective implementation of these improvements.

MOLIT underscored the pivotal role of local governments in ensuring underground safety, emphasizing the need for proactive measures to mitigate the risk of ground subsidence. These measures include rigorous ground investigations prior to and during excavation work, the establishment of rapid joint restoration protocols for any incidents that do occur, and a significant bolstering of safety oversight at all active excavation sites within their jurisdictions.

The ministry's commitment extends beyond preventative measures. In addition to the nationwide inspections targeting 98 major excavation sites, MOLIT has launched a dedicated accident investigation committee to thoroughly examine the root causes of the recent sinkholes in Myeongil-dong and Iljik-dong. This investigation is slated for completion by June, and the findings will be made public. Crucially, the announcement of the investigation results will be accompanied by a comprehensive set of 'Measures to Strengthen Safety Management at Excavation Sites,' which will integrate expert consultations and the outcomes of relevant research.

Kim Tae-byeong, Director-General of MOLIT's Bureau of Technology and Safety Policy, addressed the growing public unease directly. "Given the significant anxiety and concern among the public due to the recent spate of ground subsidence incidents, MOLIT is committed to working closely with relevant government agencies, local administrations, and private sector experts to enhance underground safety to the highest possible standards," he stated.

The government's swift response reflects the increasing pressure to ensure the safety and stability of urban environments amidst ongoing construction and infrastructure development. The outcome of these inspections and the subsequent safety measures are anticipated to have a significant impact on future construction practices and public confidence in underground safety management across South Korea.