Video Report: Speedboat-crash victims’ bodies to be taken home

PHUKET: The bodies of two South Korean nationals recovered from the wreckage of a speedboat that sank in Phang Nga Bay on Sunday will be flown back to Korea early tomorrow morning.

Search and rescue divers recovered the bodies of Ko Min Woo, 31, and An Sun Yong, 28, on Tuesday (stories here and here).

Phuket Governor Nisit Jansomwong was among a delegation of government officials on hand to pay respects to the Korean victims and their families when the bodies arrived at Rassada Pier.

Governor Nisit confirmed that Seastar, the tour company operating the speedboat, would take responsibility for all expenses incurred.

Two injured Koreans who survived the accident will be among those returning on the flight to Korea.

“The boat company’s insurance will cover expenses and the Ministry of Tourism and Sports Phuket office will also provide compensation to the families of the victims,” Gov Nisit said, adding that the amount of compensation to be given by the ministry had yet to be confirmed.

“I would like to thank all of those who helped in the rescue mission and those officials who quickly arranged all the documentation for the victims’ families – we are sorry for this tragic loss.”

Lee-Sun Min from the Korean consulate, who was also present, praised Phuket authorities and rescue workers for their determination in finding the victims.

“Thank you for recruiting a search team to find and bring back the bodies of these two loved ones. Now they can return with their families to their country and will be assured a proper funeral ceremony,” he said.

— Woranut Pechdee