The family of an Australian woman killed in a Halloween crowd crush in South Korea has paid tribute to the 23-year-old, describing her as the life of the party and an incredible human being.
Sydney film production assistant Grace Rached was identified as the Australian victim of the tragedy in the Itaewon district of Seoul on Saturday night, when more than 150 people died.
Ms Rached’s family said she was a talented film producer who was passionate about making a difference.
“We are missing our gorgeous angel Grace, who lit up the room with her infectious smile,” they said in a statement.
“Grace always made others feel important and her kindness left an impression on everyone she ever met. Grace always cared about others and she was loved by all.”
The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade said consular officials are providing assistance to her family.
Ms Rached was working as a production assistant at Singapore-based film and media company ElectricLime, according to her LinkedIn profile.
She had been with the company for the last 15 months, had previously worked at smaller production companies, and had volunteered for Sydney short film festival Tropfest.
She had studied at the University of Technology in Sydney, completing a Bachelor of Communications and International Studies.
“(Grace) cared deeply about her two sisters and was a wonderful role model. Grace showed us what it meant to be an incredible human being,” her family said.
“We will deeply miss our beautiful Grace, our life of the party.”
A friend who was with Ms Rached, Nathan Taverniti, said “there was no stampede. It was a slow and agonising crush”.
“This crush was not caused by drunk people. It was caused by a lack of planning, police force and emergency services,” a tearful Mr Taverniti said on TikTok.
The tragedy struck as a large crowd gathered to celebrate Halloween, and a throng of people surged into an alleyway near a nightclub area.
The area is popular with young people, expatriates and travellers.
“Our sincere condolences for all affected by this terrible tragedy,” Prime Minister Anthony Albanese tweeted on Sunday before news broke of the Australian’s death.
A NSW Department of Education spokesperson told AAP they were deeply saddened to hear about the tragic death of the 23-year-old, who was a former student of Canterbury Girls High in Sydney.
“Our sincere condolences and deepest sympathies go to the student’s family and the broader school community,” the spokesperson said.
“The school will be providing counselling and support for all affected students and staff.”
