SURAT THANI — The body of a South Korean tourist who went missing after a longtail boat capsized near Koh Phangan has been recovered. Jin Yoon, 30, was found approximately 500 meters from Rin Queen Pier in Ban Tai District, Surat Thani Province at 11:33 a.m. today, December 31, 2024.
The victim’s body is currently at Koh Phangan Kusol Sattha Foundation, pending collection by relatives for religious ceremonies.
Yoon was the only fatality in the December 29 accident, which occurred when the vessel “Pichitchai” capsized near Rin Beach at 3:00 a.m. Twelve others survived, including four Thai nationals, two Japanese tourists, one each from Turkey, Netherlands, Germany, and South Korea, and three crew members.
Investigation revealed the boat encountered 2-3 meter waves before capsizing. None of the passengers were wearing life jackets.
Police Colonel Panya Nirattimanon, Superintendent of Koh Phangan Police Station, has announced charges against boat driver Mr. Pattanapong, known as Od, age 46. The charges include negligent homicide, illegal methamphetamine use, and multiple maritime violations. The maritime charges specifically involve operating a vessel without proper permits, using an expired certification, and violating license suspension orders under the Navigation in Thai Waters Act.
Mr. Pattanapong has admitted to all charges. He has requested police investigators to contact the deceased victim’s family to arrange legal compensation discussions.
The accident has raised concerns about maritime safety regulations and enforcement on the popular tourist island, particularly regarding nighttime operations and weather conditions.
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Previous report:
Korean Tourist Missing After Longtail Boat Capsizes Near Koh Phangan
