What’s Happening with the Search for Two Missing Workers Following a Power Plant Collapse in South Korea?
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Synopsis
The search for two missing workers from a boiler tower collapse at a power plant in Ulsan, South Korea, continues as rescue operations face challenges. Authorities are now preparing to demolish nearby units to assist in the search. Will the investigation reveal the causes of this tragic incident?
Key Takeaways
- Ongoing search efforts for missing workers at the Ulsan power plant.
- Investigation initiated by Ulsan District Prosecutors Office.
- Demolition of nearby units to aid rescue operations.
- Concerns regarding safety measures at the site.
- Community support for victims' families is critical.
Seoul, Nov 8 (NationPress) Efforts to find two workers missing from a collapsed boiler tower at a thermal power plant in the southeastern city of Ulsan continued on Saturday. Authorities have initiated preparations to dismantle nearby units to aid in the search.
The incident occurred at the Ulsan branch of Korea East-West Power Co., a government-operated utility, on Thursday, resulting in three fatalities and two workers still unaccounted for. The exact whereabouts of the missing individuals remain a mystery, as reported by Yonhap news agency.
Firefighters have been sifting through approximately 30 meters of twisted steel and debris, utilizing about 40 rescuers, drones, and various tools overnight to reach the core of the collapse.
Standing at 60 meters, the boiler tower was in the process of being dismantled after ceasing operations in 2021, following 40 years of service.
The central disaster and safety response headquarters announced the decision to dismantle Unit 4 and Unit 6 power plants due to fears of further collapses, as both units had already been significantly weakened for demolition.
Preparatory blasting work commenced Friday night in line with this decision.
The disaster response headquarters anticipates that the pace of rescue operations will improve once the demolition of Units 4 and 6 is finalized.
This demolition is projected to occur early next week, contingent upon the completion of the preparations.
"Once the components needed to connect the explosives are set, the demolition is likely to take place on Tuesday," stated an official from Ulsan city.
The accident unfolded as subcontracted workers were cutting steel supports to weaken the structure before the blasting.
The Ulsan District Prosecutors Office has assembled an investigation team to ascertain the precise cause of the incident in collaboration with police and the labor ministry, aiming to hold accountable those responsible and provide support to the victims' families.
Whether appropriate safety measures were implemented, such as supporting the tower with wires, will be critical questions during the investigative process.
Point of View
We must emphasize the importance of thorough investigations in accidents like the Ulsan power plant collapse. The safety of workers should always be prioritized, and accountability is crucial in preventing future tragedies.
NationPress
10/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened at the Ulsan power plant?
A boiler tower collapsed at the Ulsan power plant, leading to three deaths and two workers missing.
What are the ongoing rescue efforts?
Firefighters are working to clear debris while preparations for demolishing adjacent units are underway to facilitate the search.
Who is investigating the incident?
The Ulsan District Prosecutors Office has formed a team to investigate the collapse's causes and hold responsible parties accountable.
