Rescue Efforts Amid Danger
Fulfilling the Mission of Protecting Public Lives
The Yeosu Maritime Police Station in South Jeolla Province (Chief: Kim Kiyong) announced on November 10 that Byeongwook Yoo, a police officer in the Maritime Security and Rescue Division, will receive the 'Life Respect Award' organized by the Life Insurance Social Contribution Foundation at a ceremony to be held in Seoul on December 17.
The 'Life Respect Award' is presented by the Life Insurance Social Contribution Foundation to recognize unsung heroes nationwide who have put the spirit of respecting life into practice. The award is given to individuals or organizations who have saved lives or dedicated themselves to preventing accidents, with the aim of raising awareness of the preciousness of life and spreading its value.
On August 16, at around 1 a.m., Officer Yoo played a decisive role in both rescuing lives and extinguishing a fire that broke out between the petroleum product carrier A (2,692 tons) and the cargo vessel B (24 tons), which were anchored at anchorage A in Yeosu. He risked his own safety to do so.
Even as explosions occurred in rapid succession, Officer Yoo responded calmly. He helped one crew member, who was isolated at the bow, make an emergency escape into the sea and then personally entered the water to safely rescue the individual.
During the subsequent maritime search, he discovered another person adrift, entered the water again, and rescued them. Working together with the Yeosu Maritime Police patrol boat, he evacuated 16 additional people, saving a total of 18 lives.
He also participated in external firefighting operations using foam and seawater to extinguish remaining flames, playing a key role in preventing the fire from spreading.
Since joining the force in 2021, Officer Byeongwook Yoo has served in the rescue team of the Yeosu Maritime Police Security and Rescue Division, carrying out swift and dedicated rescue operations at various maritime accident sites. This award is a recognition of his courage, sense of responsibility, and strong commitment to protecting the lives of the public.
Officer Yoo stated, "I did not hesitate because I did not want to miss the golden time to save precious lives," adding, "I will continue to do my utmost to protect the lives and safety of the public."
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