Seoul conducts large-scale disaster response and maritime safety drills

The Seoul Metropolitan Government is conducting comprehensive disaster response drills to strengthen safety protocols for both urban and maritime environments.

On May 27, a joint maritime emergency drill will take place near the Yeouido Hangang Bus pier. The exercise simulates a cruise ship fire caused by arson, involving 165 personnel and 25 vessels. The drill aims to test the coordination between the Future Hangang Headquarters, the 119 Water Rescue Team, the Hangang Police, and various fire and medical services. Key objectives include passenger rescue, fire suppression, oil spill prevention, and vessel towing.

Additionally, the city held the ‘2026 Seoul Disaster Response Safety Korea Drill’ at the Mokdong Sports Complex. This large-scale exercise involved 725 participants from 21 agencies, including the military, police, and Korea Electric Power Corporation. The drill simulated complex, cascading disasters—such as ground subsidence caused by earthquakes, structural collapses, and electric vehicle fires—based on recent real-world incidents in Seoul. Mayor Oh Se-hoon inspected the field operations to ensure the effectiveness of inter-agency command systems and the use of advanced rescue equipment.