The driver involved in a tragic car accident near Seoul City Hall, which resulted in nine fatalities, expressed remorse to the victims and their families during a court appearance on Tuesday, July 30. 

The 68-year-old driver, identified as Cha, attended a hearing at Seoul Central District Court to determine whether an arrest warrant would be issued against him. The incident occurred on July 1 when Cha's vehicle veered onto a sidewalk in Jung District, causing 16 injuries, including nine deaths.

Cha has claimed that the accident was due to sudden unintended acceleration and that the brakes were unresponsive. However, when questioned by reporters about this claim and the scuff marks on his shoes indicating possible acceleration, Cha expressed uncertainty and repeatedly apologized, stating, "I'm deeply sorry to those who passed away" and "I'm so, so sorry to the bereaved families."

The court hearing, which began at 10:30 AM, was to consider potential violations of the Act on Special Cases Concerning the Settlement of Traffic Accidents. Earlier, on July 15, the National Forensic Service suggested that the accident might have been due to driver negligence, raising doubts about Cha's defense of mechanical failure.

SEE ALSO: Former Airports Corp. Chief who oversaw Muan localizer renovation Found Dead