Nighttime Sea-Gelatin Harvesting Continues in Restricted Area of Yeongheungdo; 5 Apprehended

Despite a recent tragedy that claimed the life of a coast guard officer during a rescue mission, individuals continue to flout safety regulations in the Yeongheungdo area. Five people were apprehended by the Incheon Coast Guard for nighttime sea-gelatin harvesting in a prohibited zone on the tidal flats of Yeongheungdo. This act of defiance occurred in an area that has been designated a restricted zone due to its hazardous conditions, including deep channels, rapidly changing water depths, and strong currents.

The apprehended individuals were found to have ventured approximately 1.5 kilometers onto the tidal flat during the night. The area, specifically the Naeri tidal flat, was declared a restricted zone on January 12th due to the high frequency of accidents. Records indicate that between 2020 and last year, 13 accidents occurred in this location, resulting in two fatalities. The recent death of Officer Lee Jae-seok, who perished while rescuing a stranded citizen, underscores the extreme dangers present.

This latest apprehension is part of a pattern of maritime incidents in the Yeongheungdo vicinity during the recent holiday period. Earlier, a motorboat experienced an engine failure and drifted at sea, requiring a rescue by the Coast Guard. In another incident, a vehicle became stranded on the tidal flat, although the occupants were safely evacuated. These events highlight a persistent disregard for safety protocols and the inherent risks associated with the coastal environment.

The Coast Guard plans to impose fines on the five individuals for violating the Coastal Accident Prevention Act. The restricted zone prohibits access during nighttime hours (30 minutes after sunset to 30 minutes before sunrise) and during periods of strong weather advisories. This enforcement action serves as a critical reminder of the importance of adhering to safety regulations to prevent further tragedies.