What Happened in South Korea's Thermal Power Plant Collapse?
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Synopsis
Tragedy struck in Ulsan as a boiler tower collapsed at a thermal power plant, trapping seven workers. Rescue operations are ongoing with a race against time to save those still trapped. Discover the details of this unfolding situation and the efforts being made to ensure safety and accountability.
Key Takeaways
- Seven workers trapped due to a tower collapse.
- Rescue operations are ongoing with 24-hour efforts.
- The collapsed structure was 60 meters tall.
- Government mobilization and investigation are underway.
- Plant was retired in 2022 and in the process of dismantling.
Ulsan, Nov 6 (NationPress) A boiler tower at a thermal power plant in the southeastern city of Ulsan collapsed on Thursday, resulting in seven workers being trapped. Authorities are actively conducting a rescue operation.
The incident occurred at the Ulsan branch of Korea East-West Power Co., a state-owned utility, shortly after 2 PM, as reported by Yonhap News Agency.
Initially, reports indicated nine workers were trapped; however, two were rescued early and are in stable condition.
Rescuers later located two more individuals, one of whom was conscious, as they worked to extract them. The search continues for the five remaining trapped workers.
The rescued individuals were believed to be pinned between the ground and debris, prompting firefighters to dig through gravel and soil to create an exit path.
"We are diligently working to retrieve the trapped individuals that have been located and are contemplating lifting or dismantling the collapsed structure to expedite the search for the others," stated a firefighting official.
Rescue teams have set up searchlights to continue operations through the night.
The collapsed tower measured 60 meters in height and was reportedly undergoing dismantling via explosives. All trapped individuals are believed to be subcontractor employees.
South Korean President Lee Jae Myung has ordered the full deployment of resources and personnel to aid in the rescue and manage the situation post-accident, as per spokesperson Kim Nam-jun.
He also emphasized the importance of ensuring safety for rescue teams.
Prime Minister Kim Min-seok echoed similar directives to the interior ministry and related agencies.
The labor ministry announced plans for a thorough investigation into potential violations of safety and disaster regulations and will establish a disaster response unit with relevant government bodies.
"We will actively pursue a mandatory investigation, including search and seizure, to fully understand the cause of this incident," stated Labor Minister Kim Young-hoon.
The thermal power plant, constructed in 1981, was in the process of being dismantled following its retirement in 2022.
At its peak in the early 1980s, the plant's three power generation units supplied 15 percent of South Korea's electricity demand.
Korea East-West Power Co. contracted the dismantling work to HJ Shipbuilding & Construction Co. in January under a deal valued at 57.5 billion won (approximately US$39.7 million), with an anticipated completion date set for March 2026.
Point of View
It is essential to recognize the profound impact on the affected families and the broader community in Ulsan. The safety measures in place during dismantling projects must be scrutinized to prevent future occurrences. Our commitment is to ensure that accountability is upheld and that the lessons learned lead to enhanced safety protocols in the industry.
NationPress
06/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the boiler tower to collapse?
The exact cause of the boiler tower collapse at the Ulsan thermal power plant is still under investigation by authorities, including the labor ministry, which is looking for possible violations of safety regulations.
How many workers were trapped in the incident?
Initially, nine workers were reported trapped due to the collapse, but two were rescued shortly after. Currently, there are seven workers still trapped.
What actions are being taken for the rescue?
Rescue teams are actively working to locate and extract the trapped workers, utilizing searchlights for night operations and considering the dismantling of the collapsed structure to aid in the search.
What is the government's response to this incident?
The South Korean government, including President Lee Jae Myung and Prime Minister Kim Min-seok, has mobilized resources for the rescue operation and is investigating the incident for any breaches of safety protocols.
What is the history of the thermal power plant?
The thermal power plant was built in 1981 and was in the process of being dismantled following its retirement in 2022. At its peak, it supplied a significant portion of South Korea's electricity.
