SEOUL: The Seoul city government announced plans to establish a memorial altar for the victims of the recent Jeju Air plane crash and to scale down year-end festivities during the national mourning period. This decision comes in the wake of the tragedy, as the city seeks to honor the victims with appropriate solemnity.
According to Yonhap News Agency, the memorial altar will be located in front of Seoul City Hall and will be accessible to the public from 8 a.m. on Tuesday until 10 p.m. Saturday, coinciding with the conclusion of the seven-day national mourning period. The city officials have emphasized the importance of providing a space for collective mourning and reflection.
While the annual New Year's Eve bell-ringing ceremony at Bosingak Pavilion will proceed as planned, all associated performances and concerts have been canceled. A significant feature of the event will be a 30-meter-wide sun sculpture, designed to rise behind the pavilion at midnight, symbolizing a tribute to the victims. The ceremony will be attended by Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon, Seoul Metropolitan Council chairperson Choi Ho-jung, and civic representatives.
Other year-end events in the city will also see modifications. The media facade display on Gwanghwamun Gate and the countdown event at Gwanghwamun Square will be conducted without sound effects. Additionally, the ice skating rink at Seoul Plaza will remain open but will operate without music during the mourning period.
The city government has requested that all district offices cancel performances for their New Year sunrise events, ensuring a city-wide observance of the mourning period. These measures reflect the city's commitment to honoring the victims and providing a respectful environment during this somber time.