One dead, several trapped after boiler tower collapse at Ulsan power plant

ULSAN, SOUTH KOREA —A boiler tower collapse at a thermal power plant operated by Korea East-West Power Co. in Ulsan has left one worker dead and several others trapped beneath heavy debris, authorities confirmed on 7 November, 2025.

The accident occurred on 6 November during dismantling operations at the Ulsan branch of the state-run utility. Explosives were reportedly being used to deconstruct the 60-metre-high boiler tower when it collapsed unexpectedly.

According to Kim Jeong-sik, an official from the Ulsan Nambu Fire Station, the deceased worker, aged 44, went into cardiac arrest during rescue efforts and was pronounced dead around 5 a.m. on 7 November.

"A rescue worker injected him with painkillers and took measures to keep him warm, but he eventually passed away," Kim told reporters.

Another worker found nearby was also presumed dead due to the difficulty in reaching him and the condition observed by rescue teams.

Initially, nine workers were reported trapped under the debris. Two were rescued shortly after the collapse, leaving seven unaccounted for.

With one confirmed dead and another presumed dead, efforts are now focused on locating and rescuing the remaining five workers. Their exact locations remain unknown, complicating the operation.

Firefighters are currently attempting to cut through approximately 30 metres of entangled steel and other debris. Authorities have said progress has been slow due to the risk of further structural instability and the physical challenge of removing the dense wreckage.

Overnight, rescue personnel reported spotting what appeared to be a human finger under the rubble. However, authorities believe it likely belonged to one of the five still missing, as it did not match the positions of the two already found.

"We will carry out various rescue operations speedily once the sun rises," Kim said, indicating that daylight may allow a more coordinated and thorough response.

All the trapped workers are believed to have been employees of a subcontractor involved in the dismantling of the tower.

The Ministry of Employment and Labour is expected to launch a formal investigation into the cause of the collapse, focusing on worksite safety procedures, the use of explosives in demolition, and the subcontracting arrangements.

Korea East-West Power Co. has not yet issued a detailed statement regarding the incident, but is reportedly cooperating with emergency responders and investigators.