Itaewon

Stumbling, crumbling, crashing of bones in a human wave,
Voices suffocated, engulfed so no one can be saved,
Here I am, weeping and hugging his lost shoe from that tragic day…

Competition: 2023 National Sejeong Writing Competition — Sijo Catergory
Prize: 3rd Place
Sijo Written By: Eden Park
Background: The Itaewon Halloween incident in South Korea occurred on October 29, 2022, where a crowd crush resulted in the deaths of at least 159 people and injuries to 196 others. It was their first Halloween event after the COVID-19 Pandemic, and many young adults had gathered in Itaewon for Halloween celebration. As the crowd grew too large to be managed safely, this resulted in a chaotic and dangerous stampede, which led to tragic losses of life and injuries, prompting global shock and sorrow. An event that was originally supposed to be festive and cheerful all went downhill. 
Through my sijo, I was able to connect the emotion, tension, and grief of that specific event as if I had lost a loved one. Thank you to the Sejong Cultural Society for this wonderful opportunity.
Image Source: CNN
Winners: 2023 Sejong Writing Competition