On February 17, a collision occurred between a cargo vessel and an LNG carrier approximately six kilometers southwest of Yeoseo Island in Wando County, South Jeolla Province, South Korea.
The vessels involved in the collision, a 5,900-ton freighter and a 9,000-ton LNG carrier, both suffered damage from the incident. Fortunately, there is currently no immediate risk of either ship sinking. News reports from agencies in South Korea indicate that all 77 individuals aboard the two vessels were successfully rescued about four hours after the collision. None of the rescued individuals are reported to be in critical condition.
The freighter, registered in Jeju, was transporting vehicles and containers, while the LNG carrier, flagged in Panama, was empty at the time of the collision.
In response to the incident, the Coast Guard is conducting inspections on both vessels to assess any additional damage. Authorities are also actively investigating the circumstances surrounding the collision, including the possibility that the freighter may have exceeded its passenger limit.
To remind, during the second SAFETY4SEA Singapore Forum, Harry Hirst, Partner & Master Mariner, Ince & Co highlighted that in order to avoid a collision it is important to detect and observe the approach, appraise situation and risk of collision, take timely and positive avoiding action and proceeding at an appropriate speed, allowing proper time to observe, appraise and act to escape.
