BAI: Gocheok Dome, Munhak and Jamsil Stadiums Could Collapse; Urgent Reinforcement Needed

[Financial News] An audit by the Board of Audit and Inspection found that the steel-truss joints supporting the roof of Gocheok Sky Dome have insufficient load-bearing capacity. While the issue is not serious enough to warrant closing the stadium immediately, it could pose a risk if severe conditions such as heavy snow or strong winds coincide, prompting calls for swift remedial work.
On the 21st, the Board of Audit and Inspection issued interim findings from its audit of “Safety Management at Multi-Use Sports Facilities,” which covered these issues.
In 2024, the Seoul Facilities Corporation found that 23 of the 466 steel-truss joints in the roof of Gocheok Sky Dome were bent. A detailed safety inspection recommended reinforcing both sides of the truss.
However, the corporation proceeded with the work after hearing the contractor’s view that reinforcing only one side would suffice. A safety review conducted during the audit found that the joints had insufficient load-bearing capacity.
An official from the Board of Audit and Inspection explained, “It is not serious enough to close the stadium immediately, but it is true that it could be dangerous if unusual circumstances arise,” adding, “There is a need to make improvements promptly.” The official added that performances might have to be suspended if unexpected heavy snow or similar conditions occurred.
Problems were also identified with fire-response systems at Gocheok Sky Dome. At five sports facilities, including Gocheok Dome, emergency generators lacked sufficient electrical capacity, raising concerns that backup power would not be supplied in the event of a fire and firefighting systems might fail to operate.
Structural defects and inadequate maintenance were also found at other large stadiums. In 2024, Incheon Munhak Stadium found that damage to 50 roof-supporting steel-truss members was progressing, yet scheduled reinforcement work for 2028. An investigation found that Jeonju World Cup Stadium had reinforced only some of the column-support structures where inadequate rebar installation had been identified.
The Board of Audit and Inspection said the possibility of some facilities collapsing at five stadiums, including Gocheok Dome, could not be ruled out depending on weather conditions and other factors. The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism and the relevant local governments are drawing up measures to address the defects, and the interim findings will be finalized after deliberation and a resolution by the Audit Committee.

[email protected] Seong Seok-woo Reporter