Mokpo Coast Guard Establishes 2025 Coastal Accident Prevention Plan

Mokpo Coast Guard (Chief Kwon Oseong) announced on the 19th that it has established the '2025 Coastal Accident Prevention Implementation Plan' to prevent frequent coastal accidents occurring at beaches, ports, harbors, and mudflats, and will work to create a safe coastal environment where the public can enjoy with peace of mind.

Last year, a total of 27 coastal accidents occurred within the jurisdiction of Mokpo Coast Guard. By type, there were 11 falls (41%), 9 cases of isolation (34%), and 6 cases of drowning (22%).

Kwon Oseong, Chief of Mokpo Coast Guard (right), is inspecting coastal safety facilities. Provided by Mokpo Coast Guard Station

Coastal accidents mainly occurred during the summer peak season (July to September) when tourists flock to the area, and were frequently reported in the afternoon hours (12:00 to 17:00) when marine activities are most active.

In addition, 18 accidents (66%) involved middle-aged and elderly people (in their 50s to 80s), who are considered a vulnerable group for coastal accidents, further highlighting the need for enhanced safety management. The main cause of these accidents was carelessness, making preventive measures even more important.

Based on last year's analysis of coastal accidents, Mokpo Coast Guard plans to actively promote the 'Creating a Safe Coastal Area for Everyone' policy, focusing on four key tasks: ▲prevention-oriented coastal safety management ▲coastal safety management in cooperation with the public and local communities ▲expansion of diverse coastal safety culture ▲improvement of on-site response capabilities to coastal accidents.

In particular, the agency will do its utmost to create a safe coastal environment by implementing the 'Step by Step Campaign,' which includes safety education and promotional activities tailored to local characteristics and targeting vulnerable groups and elementary school students in island regions.

A Mokpo Coast Guard official stated, "Active interest and cooperation from the public are essential for preventing coastal accidents," and urged, "Please familiarize yourself with the terrain of dangerous areas in advance, and always wear a life jacket when engaging in coastal activities to be prepared in case of an accident."