Lee Ji-Han: who was South Korean actor and K-Pop singer killed in Seoul Halloween crush

South Korea is in mourning after more than 150 people died in a crush during Halloween celebrations in Seoul.

Reports suggest that around 100,000 revellers had descended on Seoul’s popular Itaewon district to celebrate Halloween. The eventual crush left at least 154 people and a further 149 injured.

Among those to have died as a result of the stampede was actor and singer Lee Ji-Han. Here’s everything you need to know about the K-pop star.

Who was Lee Ji-Han?

Lee Ji-Han was a 24-year-old actor and singer from South Korea. He came to prominence in the country after appearing on reality competition show Produce 101, which aims to create the next K-pop band.

Ji-Han went on to make the jump into acting. He starred in several South Korean television dramas.

The young man’s passing was confirmed by his agencies 935 Entertainment and 9Ato Entertainment. A statement from both agencies said: “It is heartbreaking to greet you with sad news. Actor Lee Ji-han, a precious family member of 935 Entertainment and 9Ato Entertainment, has become a star in the sky and has left us.

"I extend my deepest condolences to the bereaved families who are deeply saddened by the sudden loss and to all those who love, cherish, and grieve together with actor Lee Ji-han."

It continued: "Actor Lee Ji-han was a friendly and warm friend to everyone. The infinitely bright and innocent actor Lee Ji-han, always smiled brightly.

"It is hard to believe that I will no longer be able to see him.

"Please send us a warm welcome on the final path of actor Lee Ji-han, who left us too soon. We, 935 Entertainment and 9Ato Entertainment, will remember for a long time the image of actor Lee Ji-han, who shined beautifully with his passion for acting.

"Once again, we send our deepest condolences to the deceased on his last journey."

What happened in Seoul Halloween crush?

The tragedy took place on Saturday 29 October - ahead of Halloween night on 31 October. A reported 100,000 people made their way into the Itaewon district to celebrate the holiday.

While the bars and venues were packed, there was no specific street event going on, meaning that there was no crowd control in the surrounding streets. It is believed that excitement was high, and crowd numbers were equally as high, as it was the first time venues had been able to hold Halloween events since the Covid-19 pandemic.

As of yet, there has been no specific reason given for the crush. However, most of those killed or injured in the surge were said to have been hurt when the crowd was forced down a narrow alleyway.

The crush has so far left at least 154 people dead, and a further 149 people injured. The death toll is expected to rise, with many of those injured in a critical condition.