The Boiler Room World Tour in Seoul almost led to disaster. Just two years after the tragic crowd collapse in Itaewon that killed over 150 people, the concert faced a similar crisis due to dangerously large crowds. Attendees reported having difficulty breathing as the situation became even more chaotic. The event was abruptly halted to prevent further damage. Now many concert-goers are demanding strict action against the organisers, accusing them of being ‘obsessed with money’.
Narrow escape from mob in Seoul
Boiler Room Seoul 2024 was abruptly cut short on July 27, just moments after it kicked off in full swing. The event, scheduled to run from 9 p.m. to 4 a.m., was halted around 1 a.m. after the local fire department intervened. The event drew a massive crowd, thanks in large part to the addition of renowned Korean DJ Peggy Gou to the lineup. Lack of adequate crowd management led to a situation so bad that organizers had to cancel the rest of the night’s performances due to safety concerns.
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Several videos have surfaced online showing the crowds and bustle of the venue, looking uncomfortable and desperate for air and water. One tweet states that the fire department had to come to the scene as some people were having trouble breathing. They eventually cancelled the event and asked everyone to leave.
Viewers blame Boiler Room World organisers
The Boiler Room Seoul Festival at SFactory had to end about three hours earlier than scheduled, causing a public outcry from those who had paid full ticket price. Some attendees required medical assistance on the spot, while others were evacuated as a precaution.
Though no casualties were reported, the incident has sparked widespread anger among ticket holders, who have demanded compensation. One social media user claimed that the festival was overcrowded, with about 6,000 people turning up at a venue meant for only 2,000.
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“It doesn’t look like the venue can accommodate 5,000 people,” claimed one person. “If the venue has a capacity of 2,000, that means it’s already full because it’s at 2,000 capacity. Indoor venues get really crowded at maximum capacity. What were they thinking, selling more tickets like that?” another criticised the management.
K-netizens were very angry, even comparing it to the Itaewon disaster. “Everyone was going crazy because Peggy was coming, but they kept selling tickets. It almost caused another Itaewon disaster.”
“This company must be punished. This cannot be ignored.”
“How long has it been since the Itaewon incident? Are you really brain dead?”
“6,000 people in a space of 2,000… even prisons can’t accommodate that many people.”
“It was like hell on earth”
Peggy Gou reacts to event cancellation
The DJ, whose event was cancelled, shared her disappointment on social media and expressed relief that there was no major mishap. “Before I could go on stage and perform, the event was cancelled due to host issues and safety concerns. It breaks my heart and I’m so sad. I can’t believe this happened. I came back from Japan without sleeping because I was really looking forward to it…” said Peggy Gou.
“Fortunately, it was nothing major. I have requested that those who bought the tickets be refunded immediately. I am negotiating for another performance as soon as possible, both for those who attended and for those who were unable to enter the venue tonight. Please be patient,” she added.
