Parties Canceled Nationwide After Halloween Tragedy

Local government are postponing or canceling festivals and other events for the week of national mourning in the aftermath of the deadly Halloween stampede in Seoul's Itaewon on Saturday night.

The city of Busan has decided to cancel a fireworks festival that was scheduled for Nov. 5 on Gwangalli Beach, while Jeonju in North Jeolla Province has canceled nine events scheduled until Nov. 5. Jeju canceled the annual walking festival that promotes walking on scenic trails around Mt. Halla.

Other provincial governments followed suit out of respect for the victims.

Hotels have also called off their Halloween or other promotional events. The luxury Banyan Tree Club and Spa in Seoul also hurriedly wrapped up its Halloween-themed party program on Monday.