According to the Fukui Coast Guard, an emergency call was received at around 2.30 am on March 21 after several fishers fell into the sea. The group included eight Vietnamese apprentices aged between 20 and 30.
While fishing near a lighthouse on a breakwater, five were swept away by strong waves. Rescue operations were immediately deployed, involving helicopters and patrol vessels.
One person was rescued alive later in the morning and was not in life threatening condition. At around 10 am, another victim was found about 4.5 km from the scene unconscious and was later confirmed dead. Search efforts are continuing for three others who remain missing.
Following the incident, the Vietnamese Embassy moved quickly to coordinate response efforts. Phan Tien Hoang, first secretary and head of the labour management section, said he is working with local authorities and the Vietnamese community in Fukui to monitor the situation and provide support.
Authorities said the accident occurred in a restricted area where access has long been prohibited due to dangerous terrain and strong waves, particularly at night. Warning notices had been in place at the time.
