Motorcyclist dies after massive sinkhole opens in busy Seoul intersection
Rescue workers walk past a sinkhole outside a plant shop on a road in Seoul, South Korea on March 25, 2025. (AFP Photo)
A massive sinkhole that suddenly opened in a busy Seoul intersection claimed the life of a motorcyclist Monday evening, officials confirmed after a grueling 17-hour search operation.
The victim, a man in his 30s, was found “in cardiac arrest” Tuesday, buried nearly three feet underground and roughly 50 meters (164.0 feet) from the center of the cavity, according to Kim Chang-seop of the Gangdong Fire Station.
“He was found intact, still wearing his helmet and motorcycle boots,” Kim told reporters. “We regret that we are unable to deliver better news.”
Harrowing dashcam footage captured the moment the ground collapsed during evening rush hour around 6:30 p.m., instantly engulfing the motorcycle while a car narrowly escaped after briefly sliding into the hole before bouncing out. The car’s driver suffered minor injuries.
Sudden opening of sinkhole prompts nearby schools to close
The sinkhole has expanded to approximately 20 meters (66 feet) wide and 20 meters deep, prompting several nearby schools to close Tuesday over safety concerns.
While authorities have launched an investigation into the cause, officials noted the collapse occurred at a site where extension work for a metro line was underway.
“There were several factors at play,” a Seoul city spokesperson said. “Once the surrounding soil and debris are cleared, we will conduct a full investigation into the cause of the accident with a team of experts.”
The spokesperson acknowledged the construction could have been one of “several possible contributing factors” to the disaster.
Sinkhole incidents remain relatively uncommon in South Korea, with fewer than 200 reported cases annually, significantly lower than neighboring Japan’s rate.
