Goyang Launches Emergency Inspection of All Retaining Walls Ahead of Heavy Summer Rains

Priority Inspection for Retaining Walls in Areas with Heavy Vehicle and Pedestrian Traffic

Goyang Special City in Gyeonggi Province has launched a safety inspection of all retaining walls in the area. This inspection was initiated to prevent similar accidents following a recent retaining wall collapse in Osan that resulted in casualties.

Retaining wall section in Sinpyeong-dong on the Second Jayuro. Provided by Goyang Special City

On July 18, Goyang Special City announced that, starting July 17, it would conduct a comprehensive survey and safety inspection of retaining walls within its jurisdiction to prevent collapses and safety accidents caused by heavy rainfall.

The inspection, led by the city’s disaster response office, will last about one week and will be carried out in cooperation with related departments such as road management. The purpose is to prevent various accidents that may occur during the rainy season. In particular, sections of retaining walls with frequent vehicle or pedestrian traffic will be prioritized.

The inspection will begin with a visual assessment. For sections where abnormal signs are detected, the city plans to use disaster management funds to seek expert advice and conduct emergency safety inspections in accordance with the Special Act on Safety Control and Maintenance of Facilities.

Minor risk factors that can be addressed immediately on site will be quickly repaired. For issues requiring structural reinforcement or additional construction, the city will establish mid- to long-term improvement measures to strengthen its disaster response system with a focus on prevention.

In addition, Goyang Special City will actively recommend safety inspections to managers of retaining walls on private properties, such as those within large building sites. If risk factors are identified, the city will coordinate with relevant departments to prompt appropriate response measures.

Lee Donghwan, Mayor of Goyang, stated, "As there was a tragic loss of life due to the recent retaining wall collapse in Osan, we will make sure that such an accident never occurs in our city." He added, "As part of proactive preparedness, we will conduct safe and swift inspections of retaining wall facilities throughout Goyang to do our utmost to protect the lives and property of our citizens."