Six Missing After Tugboat Capsizes Off Busan in Freak Accident
A 286-ton South Korean tugboat sank in 87 metres of water after overturning while assisting a containership.
A 286-ton South Korean tugboat capsized off the coast of Busan on Wednesday afternoon, leaving one crew member dead and six others missing. The TNS Catcher, a 34-meter vessel built in 2007, was assisting an unnamed 66,332-ton Liberian-flagged containership when the incident occurred at approximately 1:29 PM local time.
The sole survivor, a 53-year-old Indonesian cook, recounted his escape to reporters. He had been in the galley when he realized the tugboat was in distress and managed to climb onto the stern of the overturned vessel. The containership’s crew spotted him and lowered a ladder, allowing him to reach safety. He reported that the tug’s second engineer had attempted to follow but fell into the water during the escape.
Rescue Operations Face Challenges: Tugboat
The Busan Coast Guard launched an immediate search-and-rescue operation, deploying 13 vessels along with helicopters and aircraft. By nightfall, the effort had expanded to include 19 boats, with support from the South Korean Navy, local government agencies, and fire authorities. President Lee Jae Myung ordered all available resources mobilized to locate the missing crew members.
Rescue teams faced difficult conditions, including waves up to 1.5 meters (5 feet) and winds reaching 13.5 mph. Despite these obstacles, divers and search crews continued their efforts as the tugboat remained afloat for about two hours before sinking in waters 87 meters (285 feet) deep. The body of a 57-year-old South Korean crew member was recovered and pronounced dead at a local hospital.
Investigation Underway
Authorities have not yet determined the cause of the capsizing. The crew consisted of six South Koreans and two Indonesians, all of whom were experienced maritime workers. The investigation will likely examine factors such as the tugboat’s stability, weather conditions, and the dynamics of its interaction with the containership.
The Busan Coast Guard is leading the inquiry, with maritime safety experts expected to review operational protocols for tugboats in high-traffic areas. The incident has drawn attention to the risks faced by crews during routine towing operations, particularly in unpredictable sea conditions. As the search for the missing crew members continues, families and maritime unions await answers about what led to the tragedy.
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