South Korean Ferry Queen Jenuvia 2 Grounds Off Coast: All 246 Passengers & 21 Crew Rescued Near Jangsan Island

South Korean Ferry Grounds Near Jangsan Island; All 246 Aboard Safely Rescued

A potentially dangerous maritime incident was averted off South Korea's southeastern coast when the passenger ferry Queen Jenuvia 2 ran aground on Wednesday evening. Carrying 246 passengers and 21 crew members, the vessel became stranded on a reef, but swift action ensured the safety of everyone onboard.

Swift Rescue Operations Prevent Disaster

The incident occurred near the uninhabited island of Jogdo, close to Jangsan Island in Sinan County. Upon receiving reports, the Coast Guard immediately confirmed that despite being stuck, the Queen Jenuvia 2 was not at risk of sinking or capsizing, and crucially, there was no flooding within the vessel.

Rescue teams quickly mobilized, transferring all passengers and crew members from the grounded ferry to patrol boats. This efficient operation ensured that everyone was moved to a safe location. Local media reports indicated that five individuals sustained minor injuries due to the impact of the grounding, but thankfully, no serious casualties or fatalities were reported.

Government Response and Future Plans

South Korean Prime Minister Kim Min-seok swiftly issued orders for all available maritime vessels to be dispatched to aid in the rescue efforts, underscoring the government's rapid response to the emergency. A Coast Guard official confirmed the successful transfer of passengers and the absence of flooding, as reported by Chosun Ilbo newspaper.

The Queen Jenuvia 2 was on its regular route, traveling from the popular resort island of Jeju to the port city of Mokpo when the grounding occurred. Authorities are now making plans to refloat and move the vessel ashore during the upcoming high tide.

Lessons from the Past

This incident naturally brings to mind the tragic 2014 Sewol ferry disaster, which took place in a nearby area and resulted in the loss of over 300 lives, many of whom were schoolchildren. However, the rapid and coordinated response, coupled with favorable conditions and the vessel's stability, ensured a vastly different outcome for the Queen Jenuvia 2 and its passengers.