South Korea Saw Sharp Rise in Maritime Accidents in 2024

South Korea experienced a notable increase in maritime incidents and casualties in 2024, according to newly released data from the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries. The ministry reported a total of 3,255 maritime accidents, reflecting a 5.3% rise compared to the previous year.

Alarmingly, the number of deaths and missing persons surged to 164—a 74.5% increase year-on-year. Of the 706 serious accidents recorded, collisions made up the largest share at 34.4%, followed by safety failures at 26.2%, fires and explosions at 19.8%, capsizings at 13.5%, and sinkings at 6.2%, as reported by South Korea’s Yonhap News Agency.

The statistics point to mounting safety challenges in the country’s maritime sector.