Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon Inspects Seongsu Bridge Site Test for 9-cm Elevation Gap During Vacation

Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon has inspected the progress of a site test conducted on a section of the Seongsu Bridge access ramp where an elevation gap occurred.

The Seoul Metropolitan Government stated that Mayor Oh received a briefing on the current measures and safety management countermeasures for the elevation gap section at the southern ramp of Seongsu Bridge last night (the 29th), and reviewed the site test involving external structural and geotechnical experts.

Mayor Oh has been on summer vacation since the 27th, but following visits to the Unni Senior Center in Jongno-gu and the Tapgol Park area to check heatwave response conditions, he also visited Seongsu Bridge.

The site test was carried out by removing the asphalt pavement to check the ground condition and bearing capacity.

The section where the gap occurred is an area built on soil rather than the main bridge body. While the city has confirmed that there are no abnormalities in structural safety thus far, it verified the ground condition to dispel public anxiety.

The city plans to analyze the results of this site test along with the ongoing detailed safety diagnosis to make a final judgment on safety, and carry out repairs and reinforcement if necessary.

In addition, the city plans to disclose the results of the expert advisory and conduct a comprehensive inspection of similar facilities.

Mayor Oh said, "While it has been confirmed that there are no abnormalities in the structural safety of the bridge so far, it is the responsibility of the Seoul Metropolitan Government to thoroughly check and explain anything that causes even the slightest concern among citizens."

He added, "We will transparently disclose the verification results and swiftly promote necessary measures. Taking this incident as an opportunity, we will further strengthen inspections and prevention-oriented management for similar facilities to ensure public safety to the end."

(Photo provided by Seoul Metropolitan Government, Yonhap News)
※ Please note: This article was translated by AI and may contain errors.