^{[Photo: Gwanghwamun Plaza during the '2014 Brazil World Cup'.]}

After the unbelievable tragedy of the Itaewon crowd surge, South Koreans are reconsidering "safety". 

According to reports on November 4, the city of Seoul will be considering the "safety" of holding the traditional 'Street Cheering' event for the upcoming '2022 Qatar World Cup', usually held in Gwanghwamun Plaza in front of a massive screen, broadcasting the the South Korean national team's tournament matches. Typically, tens of thousands of fans and spectators gather in Gwanghwamun Plaza, as well as other key spots including Seoul Plaza, Gangnam Yeongdong-daero, and Shinchon, during the world cup period to hold these 'Street Cheering' events. 

Now, days after the Itaewon tragedy, the city of Seoul will be making a decision for the first time ever on whether or not the 'Street Cheering' is "permissible". 

It's already been announced that due to construction, gathering in Gangnam's Yeondong-daero, in Shinchon, and in Seoul Plaza will not be permitted during this year's world cup. The only 'Street Cheering' spot left is Gwanghwamun Plaza. 

In past years, the city of Seoul has closely worked with the Korea Football Association to promote these 'Street Cheering' events. But since August of 2022, after Gwanghwamun Plaza's expansion, an advisory committee made up of representatives from the district transportation office, law enforcement office, police, traffic management, and event management has been in charge of overseeing events and gatherings at the Plaza. 

In fact, during the '2018 Russia World Cup', over 25,000 spectators showed up to cheer on South Korea's match against Sweden, dispatching various police and traffic management teams to Gwanghwamun Plaza. Up until recently, it was expected that the spectator numbers could increase exponentially during this year's 'Qatar World Cup'.

Some civilians are reacting to the news with, "It's better if the whole event is cancelled. It's inappropriate to go forward with such a massive event when we have not overcome the trauma of the Itaewon tragedy." However, others argued, "The fact that the city is considering cancelling the event is a sign that it doesn't feel feel prepared or equipped to handle massive crowds. The city should work to strengthen safety measures, not take away civilians' freedom to gather in the streets."