THE Japan Coast Guard took action after it received a distressed call from South Korea-flagged chemical tanker Keoyoung Sun, when its crew members reported the vessel was tilting while it was anchored due to bad weather near Japan’s Mutsure Island.
The tanker was completely capsized and turned upside down by the time rescuers arrived at the scene.
Eight of the crew members died. Only one Indonesian crew was confirmed alive.
A search is underway to find the two other missing crew.
The chemical tanker was transporting 980 tons of acrylic acid – a corrosive organic compound used in adhesives, paints, and polishes – when the ill-fated ship capsized on Thursday.
No leak has been detected while authorities are already preparing for measures in case there is a leak.
