Hanwha Ocean CEO Expresses Regret Over Geoje Shipyard Accident... Pledges Support for Bereaved Family and Recurrence Prevention

Hanwha Ocean CEO Kim Heecheol Offers Apology and Support to Bereaved Family
Pledges Full Cooperation with Authorities and Stronger Safety Measures
Production Halted and Special Safety Training Conducted After Fatal Accident

Hanwha Ocean has pledged support for the bereaved family and announced measures to prevent recurrence following a fatal fall accident at its Geoje plant.

On the afternoon of September 4, Kim Heecheol, CEO of Hanwha Ocean, issued an official apology, stating, "A supervisor from a Brazilian shipowner, who was overseeing test equipment, tragically fell into the sea and lost his life." He continued, "I extend my deepest condolences to the bereaved family of the deceased, who ended his life in a distant foreign land." He added, "Hanwha Ocean will do its utmost to support the bereaved family," and further expressed "deep condolences to the Brazilian government and the shipowner."

Hanwha Ocean Geoje Plant View. Provided by Hanwha Ocean

CEO Kim emphasized, "Immediately after the accident, we suspended related work and are currently investigating the cause. We will actively cooperate with relevant authorities to determine the cause and establish measures to prevent recurrence." He continued, "To local residents and the public who were shocked by the news, we will do our best to create a safer workplace," adding, "We will never compromise on safety under any circumstances."

Previously, at Hanwha Ocean's Geoje plant in South Gyeongsang Province, a Brazilian supervisor in his 30s, identified as Mr. A, fell into the sea and died while conducting a load test inspection on a 150,000-ton offshore plant vessel under construction, after a ship structure bent. Labor authorities are currently investigating the circumstances by questioning those involved at the site. In response to the accident, Hanwha Ocean suspended production from 8 a.m. to noon on the day of the incident and conducted special safety training and inspections.