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South Korea to disband coastguard in response to Sewol tragedy

The South Korean President says she will dismantle the country’s coastguard in response to its failings in the Sewol tragedy.

Marcus Hand, Editor

May 19, 2014

1 Min Read
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In a tearful television address on Monday President Park Geun-hye took ultimate responsibility for the South Korea’s worst maritime accident in 20 years.

"I apologise to the nation for the pain and suffering that everyone felt, as the president who should have been responsible for the safety and lives of the people," she said.

The ferry with 476 onboard, capsized killing at least 286 with 18 still missing. Only 176 survived including most of the vessel’s crew abandoned ship.

In her address Park singled out the role of the coastguard. "Had there been an immediate and proactive rescue operation after the accident, we would have been able to reduce the casualties," Park said.

"I have decided to dismantle the coastguard."

The investigative duties of the coastguard will be handed over to the police while its maritime patrol operations will be given to a newly-created Ministry of National Safety.

About the Author

Marcus Hand

Editor

Marcus Hand is the editor of Seatrade Maritime News and a dedicated maritime journalist with over two decades of experience covering the shipping industry in Asia.

Marcus is also an experienced industry commentator and has chaired many conferences and round tables. Before joining Seatrade at the beginning of 2010, Marcus worked for the shipping industry journal Lloyd's List for a decade and before that the Singapore Business Times covering shipping and aviation.

In November 2022, Marcus was announced as a member of the Board of Advisors to the Singapore Journal of Maritime Talent and Technology (SJMTT) to help bring together thought leadership around the key areas of talent and technology.

Marcus is the founder of the Seatrade Maritime Podcast that delivers commentary, opinions and conversations on shipping's most important topics.

Conferences & Webinars

Marcus Hand regularly moderates at international maritime events. Below you’ll find a list of selected past conferences and webinars.

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