Lee Tae-Young (South Korea) will receive this year’s International Maritime Organization’s Award for Exceptional Bravery at Sea in recognition of his heroism in saving the lives of 12 colleagues “at immense risk to his own life”. He will be recognised by the IMO for his “extraordinary leadership, courage and selflessness”.
The IMO reports that, in the early hours of 08 November 2024, the fishing vessel 135 Guemseongho suddenly listed and capsized off Jeju Island, which is near the south coast of the Korean peninsula.
Clinging to a capsized vessel
Some crew members managed to grab and hang on to the propeller while others were swept away by strong currents and waves.
Mr Lee, who is reported by the IMO to have had no prior search and rescue training “immediately” acted to rescue 12 men “desperately” clinging to the propeller on the upturned vessel. He threw life rings to the men and helped them climb up the ladder of the rescue boat.
The last to be rescued
“He was the last to board the rescue boat,” the IMO notes.
Mr Lee, who is now reported to be suffering from ill-health induced by the incident, is said to be working to overcome the toll of the event, and is continuing to convey hope and courage to his colleagues despite all challenges.
A profound inspiration
In a statement nominating Mr. Lee, the International Transport Federation stated: “Lee Tae-young is a brave seafarer who risked his own life to save his colleagues. Honouring his sacrifice and dedication will go beyond the mere act of awarding a prize and it serves as a profound inspiration to all seafarers.”
Commenting on the incident, Captain Melwyn Noronha, CEO of Shipping Australia, said: “having served at sea for many years, I know first-hand that industrious seafarers continue to display professionalism, quiet competence, and resilience in their everyday working lives. They become a shipboard family bound by a shared sense of duty, trust, and respect.
“When they are struck by the unpredictable forces of nature, they show extraordinary leadership, bravery, and selflessness in the face of extreme danger to save their shipmates. And all, ultimately, in the service of keeping families around the world warm, fed, and supplied.
“Shipping Australia cannot commend Mr Lee highly enough for his actions, and we applaud the IMO in its decision to recognise his exceptional bravery”.
