Tragic Loss in Ulsan Thermal Power Plant Collapse
One individual who was trapped following the collapse of the Ulsan Thermal Power Plant has died. The incident occurred when a 60-meter-high boiler tower at the Korea East-West Power Ulsan Power Headquarters’ Ulsan Thermal Power Plant collapsed on the previous day, burying nine people. Among those affected, one person was declared dead by medical professionals during rescue operations.
The Ulsan Fire Department Headquarters confirmed the tragic news on the 7th, stating that the victim, identified as Kim, 44 years old, succumbed to cardiac arrest during the rescue efforts. Kim was discovered around 3:45 p.m. the previous day and was among the individuals prioritized for rescue by authorities. Rescuers worked tirelessly, taking turns in groups of one or two since the previous day until dawn, navigating narrow gaps, digging through the debris, and cutting through rebar to reach the trapped individual.
During the operation, rescuers provided painkillers and blankets to Kim while receiving guidance via video calls with medical staff. Despite these efforts, Kim experienced cardiac arrest, leading to the unfortunate outcome. Kim Sun-hyu, director of the Ulsan University Hospital Regional Emergency Medical Center, who provided medical guidance at the scene, explained that the victim suffered from cardiac arrest during the rescue. Although cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) was administered, the individual did not survive. The medical team suspects that the cause of death could be related to blood clots, organ damage, or internal bleeding resulting from the accident.
This marks the first fatality reported in the incident, and fire authorities believe another buried individual may also have perished. The collapse occurred around 2:02 p.m. the previous day, leading to the entrapment of nine people. So far, two individuals have been successfully rescued, while six remain buried, excluding the confirmed fatality.
Fire authorities are currently mobilizing all available personnel and equipment to focus on search and rescue operations. The situation remains critical, with ongoing efforts to locate and assist the remaining individuals trapped beneath the rubble. The community is closely watching the developments, hoping for further successful rescues and additional information about the circumstances surrounding the collapse.
As the investigation continues, questions about the structural integrity of the power plant and the safety measures in place will likely be raised. Authorities are expected to conduct a thorough review of the incident to prevent similar tragedies in the future. The loss of life serves as a stark reminder of the dangers associated with industrial accidents and the importance of stringent safety protocols.