Three jet ski operators caught speeding between ships in Busan Port
Translated from Korean, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Three individuals were apprehended for illegally operating jet skis in Busan's North Port area.
- The jet ski operators were seen speeding and maneuvering between ships, posing a collision risk.
- They face fines of up to 3 million won each under the Maritime Traffic Safety Act for operating without proper authorization.
South Korean maritime police apprehended three men for illegally operating jet skis in the busy waters of Busan's North Port. The individuals were observed speeding and weaving between vessels, creating a significant safety hazard.
The incident occurred on August 13th when the Busan Coast Guard received a report of three jet skis operating at high speed within the port's boundaries. Responding with four patrol boats, authorities pursued the jet skiers as they navigated towards Haeundae, passing landmarks like the Busan Port Bridge and Oryukdo Island.
Operating high-speed jet skis in shipping lanes is a very dangerous act with a high risk of collision with ships.
After a 40-minute chase, the operators were apprehended off the coast of Cheongsapo. They admitted to the violations and will be fined up to 3 million won each under the Maritime Traffic Safety Act. This law prohibits recreational activities that could impede maritime traffic safety in port and fishing areas without prior authorization from the Coast Guard.
Busan Coast Guard Chief Seong Dae-hoon emphasized the extreme danger of operating high-speed personal watercraft in shipping lanes, highlighting the high risk of collision with larger vessels. He stated that illegal activities would be strictly punished according to relevant laws.
We will strictly punish illegal acts in accordance with relevant laws.
Originally published by Dong-A Ilbo in Korean. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.