Ulsan: One worker was confirmed dead and another is feared dead after a boiler tower collapsed at a thermal power plant in Ulsan. The collapse has left five others trapped, according to authorities.

According to Yonhap News Agency, the deceased, aged 44, was pronounced dead after going into cardiac arrest during rescue efforts around 5 a.m. Kim Jeong-sik, an official at the Ulsan Nambu fire station, reported that despite attempts to administer painkillers and keep the worker warm, he did not survive. Another worker, initially spotted with him, is presumed dead as well.

The incident occurred Thursday at the Korea East-West Power Co.'s Ulsan branch, a state-run utility firm. Initially, nine workers were reported trapped, but two were rescued shortly after the collapse. Rescue teams face significant challenges as they attempt to reach the remaining five workers, due to approximately 30 meters of steel and debris obstructing the site.

The exact whereabouts of the five remaining trapped workers are unknown. Firefighting officials noted the discovery of a presumed finger under the rubble, which likely does not belong to the two workers who are confirmed or feared dead.

Kim stated that various rescue operations will be expedited with the arrival of daylight. The collapsed tower, which stood 60 meters tall, was in the process of being dismantled with explosives. The trapped individuals are believed to be employees of a subcontractor involved in the dismantling project.