Working Conditions Aboard the Sky-Mir

On August 16, 2019, the tanker 'Skymir', which was traveling from Nantong to Yosu in a ballast condition, encountered a critical situation when an explosion occurred in its cargo tank during routine tank cleaning operations. The cause of the explosion remains undetermined. Following the incident, the vessel experienced significant water ingress and began to list approximately 20 degrees to the port side. The Jeju Coast Guard was promptly alerted at 5:45 p.m. and responded swiftly, arriving at the scene by 6:35 p.m. Upon arrival, the Coast Guard noted the vessel's severe listing, which increased to between 20 and 30 degrees. Fortunately, all 13 crew members on board were safely evacuated. On August 19 at 9 a.m., the 'Skymir' was successfully taken in tow by a tugboat, with the convoy heading to Busan for thorough inspection and potential repairs. Thankfully, no oil pollution has been reported as a result of this incident.