On 29 October 2022, at approximately 22:20, a severe crowd crush occurred during Halloween celebrations in Itaewon, Seoul, South Korea. This tragic event resulted in the deaths of 159 people, with an additional 196 injured. Among the deceased were two individuals who succumbed to their injuries post-event and 27 foreign nationals, with the victims predominantly being young adults.

This incident stands as the most catastrophic crowd crush in South Korea's history, eclipsing a 1959 disaster at the Busan Municipal Stadium where 67 people died. It also marks the deadliest disaster in the nation since the 2014 MV Sewol sinking and the most significant mass casualty event in Seoul since the 1995 Sampoong Department Store collapse.

A special police investigation team determined that the tragedy was primarily due to a failure of police and government agencies to adequately prepare for the large crowds, despite receiving several prior warnings. The investigation concluded on 13 January 2023.

Following the disaster, the South Korean government and police faced extensive criticism and protests. President Yoon Suk Yeol and his administration were targeted by numerous protests calling for his resignation, though he remained in office.