Seoul Halloween festivities draw huge crowds despite drug alert

Seoul's two most popular entertainment precincts saw record Halloween attendance over the weekend, as costumed crowds filled streets and venues across Itaewon and Hongdae. The combined turnout of nearly 160,000 people underscored the popularity of Halloween celebrations in South Korea's capital, with revellers enjoying festivities across both districts.

Police deployed additional officers throughout the weekend in response to earlier drug-related incidents that had prompted public health concerns in the Itaewon area. The heightened security presence was intended to ensure public safety while allowing celebrations to proceed unimpeded.

Amidst the Halloween festivities, commemorative tributes were paid to victims of past tragedies, reflecting a tradition of remembrance during major public gatherings in Seoul. The dual focus on celebration and remembrance characterized the weekend's events across the city's entertainment districts.

Authorities reported that despite managing the large crowds and implementing enhanced security measures, no major safety incidents were recorded throughout the Halloween weekend. The successful crowd management demonstrated preparedness by Seoul's police and municipal authorities in overseeing major public events.