Seoul Jung-gu Provides Psychological Support to Overcome Trauma from Backward Running Accident at City Hall Station

Psychological Counseling for Bereaved Families, Injured, and Witnesses
In-depth Counseling and Referral to Specialized Institutions if Treatment is Needed

Mourners visiting the site of the counterflow accident at City Hall Station. Photo by Yonhap News.

Jung-gu District in Seoul announced on the 5th that it is providing psychological counseling and treatment to help overcome trauma for the bereaved families, injured victims, and witnesses affected by the reverse-running accident at City Hall Station.

For the bereaved families and injured victims, Jung-gu offers face-to-face and telephone counseling, case management, and treatment programs, and connects them to specialized mental health institutions if necessary. A 24-hour mental health crisis counseling hotline (109) is available, and those needing in-depth counseling can contact the Jung-gu Mental Health Welfare Center.

The Jung-gu Mental Health Welfare Center is staffed with psychiatrists and mental health professionals, providing specialized psychological support to help overcome trauma caused by this accident.

Symptoms of trauma include repeatedly recalling psychologically shocking events, experiencing anxiety and fear, physical symptoms such as headaches, insomnia, loss of appetite, digestive disorders, and chronic fatigue, as well as mental symptoms like depression, anger, and lethargy.

Trauma is difficult to overcome because it is an unconscious reaction beyond one’s control. While it may naturally improve over time, professional help is necessary when symptoms are severe.

A district official expressed deep condolences to the victims of the accident and stated, “We will provide careful support at the district level for the bereaved families, injured victims, and citizens who have suffered shock and grief.”