Deputy presidential spokesman Lee Jae-myoung said the South Korean president made the request following the deaths of at least 154 persons during last Saturday’s tragedy in the capital’s Itaewon neighborhood, where hundreds of people gathered to celebrate Halloween.

President Yoon expressed his sadness and assumed his responsibility, as the head of State, for the lives and safety of the people, Lee said at a press conference.

The official added that in the case of planned events, organizers must draw up safety control measures to be approved by relevant local government, police and fire authorities.

jrr/arm/mem/nvo