[Itaewon Disaster] Korean Medical Association Provides Emergency Mental Health Intervention Support and Operates Memorial Clinic... "Best Medical Support"

Citizens visiting the joint memorial altar for the victims of the Itaewon tragedy, set up at Seoul Plaza in Jung-gu, Seoul on the 31st, are offering flowers. Photo by Jinhyung Kang aymsdream@

[Asia Economy Reporter Lee Gwan-joo] The Korean Medical Association will provide emergency medical support to the injured and bereaved families and operate a clinic within the joint memorial altar to aid treatment and recovery following the 'Itaewon Disaster.'

On the 31st, the KMA issued a statement saying, "We will do our best to support and stand by all sites suffering from this disaster."

The KMA stated, "Urgent medical support for the victims, the injured, and their families is a top priority. We will work closely with the government and related ministries in public-private cooperation to take all necessary measures." It added, "We are providing close support to the injured and deceased, who are currently dispersed across about 60 hospitals in the metropolitan area, in cooperation with the Ministry of Health and Welfare, Seoul City, and others, ensuring rapid medical support through the activation of the emergency medical system."

Furthermore, recognizing the inevitable trauma expected among rescue citizens, police and administrative personnel, paramedics, and medical staff, the KMA decided to support emergency psychological interventions for them. It also explained that, in cooperation with the Korean Hospital Association, preparations have been completed to operate a clinic within the memorial altar by receiving support for medical personnel, ambulances, and medicines.

The KMA said, "We will set up a clinic operated by the Korean Medical Association's emergency medical support team at the joint memorial altar established in Seoul Plaza to care for the health and well-being of the bereaved families as well as visitors." It added, "In addition, we are considering various support measures for the psychological and physical stability of the victims and bereaved families and intend to continuously reflect the heartfelt concerns of all medical professions."

Along with this, the KMA plans to expand and strengthen the role of its medical support team and operate a disaster medical support team based on cooperation with city and provincial medical associations and local governments to respond to regional disasters and calamities.