In brief
A 9.77‑ton charter fishing boat caught fire at 6:51 a.m. in waters 0.9 nautical miles south of Yeongheung Island. Coast Guard patrol and rescue boats arrived shortly after a distress call, extinguished the blaze and rescued every crew member. Two people, including the skipper, and two Coast Guard officers were hospitalized for smoke inhalation while an investigation into the cause of the fire began.
A 9.77‑ton charter fishing boat broke into flames at 6:51 a.m. in the Yellow Sea, 0.9 nautical miles south of Yeongheung Island.
After the crew sent a distress call, Coast Guard patrol and rescue boats reached the scene, put out the fire and rescued all 22 people aboard.
Two crew members, including the skipper, were taken to a hospital for smoke inhalation. Two Coast Guard officers who helped with the rescue also had to be treated for smoke inhalation.
The Coast Guard said it is investigating the exact cause of the fire and the damage extent, noting witnesses reported sparks and smoke coming from the boat’s passenger cabin.
