Fishing Vessel Grounds Off Dadaepo, Injuries Reported
On December 16, a fishing vessel weighing 9.7 tons ran aground in the Sea of Japan near Dadaepo, Saha-gu, Busan, South Korea. The incident occurred while the vessel was attempting to drop off fishermen on Seodo Island. Unfortunately, the vessel collided with a rock, resulting in significant damage to its bow. Despite the flooding caused by the impact, the vessel’s pumps managed to control the situation, allowing it to navigate under its own power to the port of Seongchang. Out of the eight individuals on board, six sustained injuries, with some requiring hospitalization for further treatment.
Investigation Underway Following Incident
In the aftermath of the grounding, local authorities have initiated an investigation to determine the cause of the incident. The South Korean Coast Guard conducted an alcohol test on the vessel’s captain, which returned negative results. Preliminary findings suggest that the vessel’s searchlight malfunctioned as it approached the rocky area, contributing to the accident. The investigation aims to uncover more details about the circumstances leading up to the grounding and to ensure that appropriate measures are taken to prevent similar incidents in the future.
The fishing community and local authorities are closely monitoring the situation, emphasizing the importance of safety measures in maritime operations. As the investigation unfolds, further updates are expected regarding the condition of the injured individuals and the findings of the Coast Guard’s inquiry.
