Pohang observatory bridge collapses, 17 rescued

A pedestrian bridge leading to a scenic lookout in Pohang, North Gyeongsang, collapsed Tuesday, with authorities rescuing 17 people and checking for additional casualties.

A report that the Boritdol Bridge had collapsed on the road leading to an observatory in the city's Guryongpo-eup, Nam District, was received at around 1:15 p.m., according to the Pohang Nambu Police Station and the Pohang Nambu Fire Station.

About 50 meters (164 feet) of the bridge collapsed and plunged into the sea.

The collapse left 14 visitors stranded at the seaside observatory and three anglers fishing from nearby rocks unable to return to shore. All were brought safely back to land by private fishing boats about an hour after the accident.

Rescue teams are continuing to search for additional casualties using diving equipment and with assistance from the Marine Corps. Underwater searches and CCTV footage showed that no one was on the bridge when it collapsed. Fire authorities believe there have been no additional casualties, although they are continuing their search.

Public access to the area has been restricted since May 29, when authorities began a detailed safety inspection following the construction of the observatory. However, some recreational anglers had frequently entered the restricted area to fish from nearby rocks.

Police and fire authorities are investigating the circumstances of the collapse.

The 170-meter Boritdol Bridge is a pedestrian bridge spanning the sea between the Janggil-ri coastline and offshore rock formations. It is normally open year-round free of charge, except when access is restricted because of weather conditions. 

The area around the collapse has been closed to the public due to risk of further structural failure.

BY CHO MUN-GYU [[email protected]]