Two South Korean sailors die in oil tanker fire off Incheon coast

A fire erupted on an oil product tanker in the waters off Incheon, claiming the lives of two South Korean sailors. The incident occurred late on August 27, approximately 7.4 kilometers north of Jawol Island in Ongjin County.

The blaze, which started in the engine room of the 7,333-ton vessel, claimed the lives of a man in his 20s and another in his 60s, both South Korean nationals. The ship was carrying 18 crew members at the time, including 11 South Koreans and 7 foreigners.

The Incheon Coast Guard launched a significant response, deploying patrol boats and aircraft to combat the fire. After a strenuous effort lasting 5 hours and 32 minutes, the fire was successfully extinguished early on August 28. The remaining 16 crew members were rescued without significant injuries.

Authorities are now investigating the exact cause of the fire and assessing the extent of the damage. The incident highlights the inherent dangers faced by maritime workers.