Ulsan: A major industrial accident shook the southeastern city of Ulsan on Thursday, as a structural collapse at the Korea East West Power Co. (EWP) Ulsan Power Plant left multiple workers trapped under fallen steelwork. The incident occurred at a section of the plant that had been decommissioned and was in the process of being dismantled.
Firefighters and rescue teams rushed to the scene after reports of the collapse. Initial efforts successfully freed four workers from the debris, but officials warned that at least five others remained trapped. On-site footage and descriptions depict a mangled steel structure amid the industrial complex, with emergency teams working under intense pressure to reach the victims safely.
The collapsed structure was part of an old heating facility within the plant. While the facility had been retired from active operations, workers were performing demolition preparations at the time of the accident. Experts note that decommissioning processes carry their own hazards, particularly when dealing with heavy steel frameworks and large-scale industrial equipment.
Rescue operations face multiple challenges. The stability of the remaining structure is uncertain, posing significant risks to both trapped workers and emergency responders. Authorities are proceeding cautiously to avoid further collapses, highlighting the dangers inherent in industrial dismantling and demolition activities.
The incident underscores broader concerns about safety oversight in industrial facilities. Korea East West Power operates in a high-risk environment that includes high-voltage systems and heavy structural components. This accident raises questions about contractor safety protocols, planning during decommissioning, and adherence to industrial safety regulations.
The identities and conditions of the trapped and rescued workers have not been released. The cause of the collapse remains under investigation, with possibilities ranging from structural failure to procedural error during demolition. Korea East West Power has not issued a full statement, but authorities have pledged a thorough investigation and immediate efforts to rescue any remaining victims.
Beyond the immediate human cost, the collapse highlights potential systemic issues in South Korea’s industrial sector, particularly in heavy-industry hubs like Ulsan. The incident may trigger regulatory reviews, stricter safety protocols for decommissioning sites, and increased scrutiny of contractor practices.
Authorities and emergency teams continue to work at the site, with the rescue of trapped workers being the top priority. The situation remains fluid, and updates are expected as teams stabilize the area and proceed with extraction operations.