Plaster ceiling collapse injures dozens and forces mass evacuation at Daegu mall

What Happened

A plaster ceiling collapsed on the second floor of a four‑storey shopping mall in Daegu, South Korea, injuring at least 36 people and prompting the evacuation of around 70 shoppers. The incident was reported at 10:16 a.m. on Saturday. Fire officials said nine victims were taken to hospitals for minor injuries, and no serious injuries were confirmed at the scene. A second report listed 38 injured and 66 evacuated, showing slight differences in early counts. The exact cause of the collapse was not immediately known.

Reaction

President Lee Jae Myung’s office said the president ordered officials to do everything possible to rescue those affected and to ensure a thorough response. Daegu Fire Department officials, including Yoon Jong-mi, added that it was highly unlikely anyone suffered serious harm.

Context

Ceiling collapses in public buildings often raise questions about construction standards and maintenance. South Korean authorities typically launch safety inspections after such events to prevent repeats.