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Tag: South Korean Coast Guard

Capsized off Gopado Island

Capsized off Gopado Island

Unnamed Ferry
Photo: Taean Maritime Police Station

On December 30, an 83 ton unnamed ferry capsized in the Garorim Bay off  Gopado Island near Seosan, South Korea. The ferry had departed from Udo with 7 crew when it lost stability and rolled over.

South Korean Coast Guard arrived on scene and found two of the crew in the water.  Divers searched the overturned vessel and found the master of the ferry in one of the interior spaces. He had suffered cardiac arrest and later pronounced deceased.

Coast Guard along with the Taean Maritime Police deployed 20 vessels and 5 helicopters searching for the four remaining missing crew. Reports state the search was difficult due to strong currents, wind and the rising tide. The Coast Guard has launched an investigation into the incident.

Unnamed Ferry
Photo: yna.co.kr

 

Mediterranea

Mediterranea

Mediterranea
Photo: imbc.com

On August 14, the 292 meter long, 7500 dwt passenger cruise ship Mediterranea caught fire while arriving at pier 8 in Jeju, South Korea.  The Mediterranea had departed from Tianjin, China when smoke was spotted near the engine room. A fire had started in a machine room caused by a mechanical failure in the air conditioning system. The fire while contained below decks had spewed out toxic smoke along large section of the starboard side of the vessel.

Fortunately, the crew was able to respond quickly to the blaze.  An automated water sprinkler system was engaged and extinguished the fire.  All passengers on board were safely disembarked with no reports of injuries to the 2436 passengers on board.

Three crew suffered smoke inhalation that received emergency treatment on site. The Korean Coast Guard and local fire deparment inspected the vessel for damage and concluded the Mediterranea was cleared to proceed on its next port of call at Fukoka, Japan.  Authorities have launched an investigation into the incident.