On March 14, the 91 meter long tanker Sun Wing caught fire in the Sea of Japan off Busan, South Korea. The crew of the tanker, loaded with nitric and sulfuric acid, reported the vessel was on fire and suffered a hull breach. The 16 crew abandoned ship into the vessel’s life rafts as it engulfed in flames. The Korean Coast Guard dispatched helicopters and ships to the scene. All 16 crew were rescued. Three were injured by burns and were taken to hospital. No further details reported.
The 147 meter long ro-ro cargo vessel Ocean Queen caught fire off Busan, South Korea. The Ocean Queen was en route to Vladivostok from Busan when fire erupted from the stern. The master reported that the fire started in the cargo hold and required assistance. A Coast Guard vessel arrived on scene and assisted the crew extinguishing the blaze. No reports of injuries or pollution released. Reports state the cargo was most likely vehicles which were damaged or destroyed in the fire.
The 225 meter long, 38851 dwt bulk freighter Ligari collided with another vessel off Busan, South Korea. The Ligari was en route to Rizhao, China from Washington, United States with 66,000 tons of corn. No reports of injuries. The Ligari suffered damage and dropped anchor awaiting salvage crews. No further details reported.
