It was attended by more than 10 000 citizens and students in Ansan area.

The participants deplored that hundreds of people lost their lives due to the authorities' incompetence and irresponsibility.

They urged the "government" to opt for probing the truth behind the accident.

At least 2 000 students of 24 high schools in Ansan area held a candlelight rally on May 9 to cherish the memory of the students who died in the accident.

At least 200 students also staged a demonstration, demanding the punishment of those who caused the hideous disaster.

A memorial rally and candlelight demonstration also took place in Seoul to honor the victims.

The joint action to cope with the situation of five religious orders including Christian, Catholics and Buddhism in a prayer meeting and a rally held in Chonggye Plaza of Seoul on May 10 denounced the authorities for failing to take proper measures as regards the disaster.