22 Seokyung
On the early morning of February 9, the 43 meter long, 139 ton fishing vessel 22 Seokyung (MMSI: 440106630) capsized and sank in the East China Sea 17 kilometers east of Habaekdo Island off the coast from Yeosu, South Korea. Reports state the vessel with 14 crew had suddenly capsized due to bad weather. Search and rescue by the Korea Coast Guard aided by nearby fishing vessels were able to pull 7 crew from the water. Three crew, including the captain of the 22 Seokyung, were found floating unconscious. Attempts to revive the crew members were unsuccessful. The other four crew were found in a life raft. They were rescued and later taken to Chukjeong on Narodo Island for treatment from hypothermia and non life-threatening injuries.
Authorities conducted a five-kilometer search around the are where the fishing vessel sank for the remaining missing crew. The Coast Guard deployed 19 vessels aided by four aircraft while divers were used to see if the the crew were trapped within the vessel. Testimony provided by the 4 surviving crew stated the 6 missing members were most likely below deck when the 22 Seokyung capsized.
Reports also state the fishing vessel had capsized before any distress call could be made. The vessel’s operator were first alerted when the vessel disappeared off radar. Korean authorities have launched an investigation into the incident.
