Tragedy Strikes NSW Coastline as Body Found and Another Man Goes Missing
A massive search operation is underway at a popular beach on the NSW north coast for 21-year-old Taewoo Kim, who was last seen entering the water on Thursday.
Meanwhile, authorities have recovered the body of another man hundreds of kilometers south.
Taewoo Kim: The Search Continues
Emergency services were alerted when Taewoo failed to return to his accommodation around 9:30 pm on Friday.
It’s believed he was last spotted around 1 pm on Thursday, when he entered the water at Moonee Beach, off Dammerel Crescent Emerald Beach, north of Coffs Harbour. Items belonging to Taewoo have been found at the beach, and local police, along with the Marine Area Command, SES, Surf Life Saving, and Marine Rescue NSW, are scouring the area for any sign of him.
Taewoo is described as being of Asian appearance, slim build, around 175cm tall, with black hair and brown eyes. If you have any information about his whereabouts, please contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
Body Found at Shell Cove
In a separate incident, emergency services recovered the body of a man from the water off Bass Point Tourist Rd, Shell Cove, around 11:20 am on Saturday. While the identity of the man has not been confirmed, police believe his death is not suspicious. Investigations are ongoing, and a report will be prepared for the Coroner.
Third Drowning Incident in a Month
This is the second death in waters off the NSW’s South Coast since Christmas Day, after a man drowned in a rip at a popular beach on Boxing Day. On Thursday, a 52-year-old man died at South Bombo Beach at Kiama after being caught in a rip while swimming with an 18-year-old relative. The 18-year-old was uninjured.
The string of incidents serves as a stark reminder of the importance of beach safety and swimming at patrolled areas. As the search for Taewoo Kim continues, our thoughts are with the families affected by these tragic events.