January 12

A high-rise apartment under construction in South Korea partially collapsed on Tuesday, leaving six workers missing.

Video footage shows part of the facade and interior walls of upper floors of the 39-story structure crumbling in the southwestern city of Gwangju. Some vehicles were crushed under the rubble.

Local officials say one of the roughly 400 workers at the site sustained minor injuries.

Rescue operations have been suspended due to concerns that a 140-meter crane may also come down. Local officials say they will resume the search when safety is confirmed.

Reports say workers were placing concrete on upper floors at the time of the accident. One media report cited an expert's view that works may have been carried out before concrete was solid.

The representative of the developer apologized on Wednesday, saying that they feel responsible and will do their utmost to rescue the missing and secure safety.

Police are to investigate into possible safety violations.

NHK