A vessel carrying an estimated seven people capsized in the West Sea off South Chungcheong Province. Two people who fell into the water were rescued, but the remaining five are missing. The Coast Guard is currently conducting rescue and search operations.
According to the Taean Coast Guard and the South Chungcheong Fire Department, a report was received at 6:26 p.m. on the 30th about the capsizing of an 83-ton vessel near Gopado in Palbong-myeon, Seosan City, South Chungcheong Province.
It is known that seven people were presumed to be on board the vessel. The capsized vessel was operated by a maritime environmental maintenance company and was identified as a car carrier transporting vehicles and cargo, not a fishing boat. According to Seosan City, the accident occurred as workers were returning after completing the Udo fishing village New Deal project construction on the day.
Two people who climbed onto the overturned vessel were immediately rescued following the accident. It was reported that they were not wearing life jackets at the time.
Currently, five people remain missing. The Coast Guard and fire authorities are deploying patrol vessels, aircraft, and rescue personnel to search the waters near the accident site. However, they are experiencing difficulties due to strong currents coinciding with the high tide.
The Coast Guard is investigating the exact circumstances of the accident.