A U.S. flag flies at half-mast in front of the U.S. Embassy in central Seoul, Sunday, as the foreign mission pays condolences to the victims of the tragic incident that killed at least 150 people in central Seoul's Itaewon area amid Halloween festivities Saturday night. Yonhap

By Kwon Mee-yoo

As more than 150 people were killed during a deadly crowd crush in central Seoul's Itaewon, Saturday night, leaders around the world sent messages of condolences showing support.

U.S. President Joe Biden was one of the first foreign heads of state to express condolences over the tragedy in Seoul.

"Jill and I send our deepest condolences to the families who lost loved ones in Seoul. We grieve with the people of the Republic of Korea and send our best wishes for a quick recovery to all those who were injured," Biden said in an official statement, mentioning first lady Jill Biden.

"The alliance between our two countries has never been more vibrant or more vital ― and the ties between our people are stronger than ever. The United States stands with the Republic of Korea during this tragic time."

The Chinese Embassy in Korea conveyed a condolence message from Chinese President Xi Jinping, Sunday afternoon.

Xi expressed condolences to the victims on behalf of the Chinese government and people and asked for the Korean government to take care of the Chinese nationals among the victims.

"Unfortunately, some Chinese people were killed or injured during the incident and I hope for Korea to do its best to treat them and take proper measures afterwards," Xi wrote.