Activision to Remove Seoul Crush Footage from Call of Duty After Backlash

Activision has confirmed it will remove real-life news footage of the 2022 Seoul crowd crush from the latest *Call of Duty* game following strong criticism from victims' families.

The video clips, which depicted the aftermath of the Itaewon disaster in an opening scene of *Modern Warfare 4* to illustrate a fictional North Korean invasion, drew immediate backlash. Bereaved families expressed profound distress upon seeing real footage of stretcher rescues, body bags, and resuscitation efforts used for entertainment.

Family Reaction and Activision's Response

In a statement released on Thursday, families of those who died called the inclusion highly inappropriate and senseless, noting that survivors and witnesses continue to suffer from trauma. The 10.29 Itaewon Disaster Bereaved Families Association welcomed the decision to remove the footage, though they stated to the BBC that they had not received a direct apology from the company.

Activision stated that the real news coverage was originally used "to establish the game's fictional narrative," while insisting the company "not intended to reference or trivialise the Itaewon disaster or any other real-world tragedy in any way, shape or form." In a follow-up statement on Friday, Activision apologised, offered condolences to those hurt by the incident, and confirmed the footage will be removed in an upcoming game update scheduled for 12 November.

Context and Additional Criticism

*Modern Warfare 4* had already faced prior criticism regarding its narrative setting, which involves a fictional war between North and South Korea. At the game's launch, Tyler Bahl, Call of Duty's chief marketing officer, defended the setting to BBC Newsbeat by stating, "We have to understand this is entertainment."

Practical Implications and Verification

• Players awaiting the removal can expect the patch in the game's scheduled 12 November update.
• Verification of Activision's official statements and updates can be pursued through their corporate news channels or verified gaming industry reports.