Eight Dead in Shipwreck off Japan
A tanker loaded with chemicals capsized off the coast of Japan, resulting in the deaths of eight individuals, according to the Coast Guard. Two persons are still missing, but there is currently no environmental threat.
A South Korean chemical tanker capsized off the coast of Japan, leading to the death of eight sailors, as reported by the Japanese Coast Guard. One person was rescued alive.
Rough Seas Cause Ship to Capsize
The Coast Guard stated that the tanker “Keoyoung Sun” issued a distress call due to adverse weather conditions. It tilted off the southwest Japanese city of Shimonoseki and had already capsized by the time rescuers arrived.
Footage from NHK television showed the ship ultimately floating upside down in the water. Onboard were reportedly a Chinese national, two South Koreans, and eight Indonesians.
Authorities Assess Environmental Protection Measures
The tanker was carrying 980 tons of acrylic acid, as per authorities. No leaks were found. Acrylic acid is used for plastics, resins, and coatings and can irritate the skin, eyes, and mucous membranes according to the US Environmental Protection Agency. Japanese authorities are evaluating the need for environmental protection measures.
