South Korean warship sunk by external blast

Survivors said a huge blast from outside tore a South Korean warship, discounting theories that an explosion on board or a grounding sank the vessel. The disaster left 46 sailors dead 12 days ago.

Crewmen described a desperate struggle to escape the stricken ship as they were plunged into darkness. Senior Petty Officer Oh Seung Tak, who was in charge of munitions storage, said he detected no smell of explosives from inside the ship. Captain Choi Won Il said officers at the time reported an external shock. "It seemed to be a shock from outside."

The Defence Ministry said all survivors had reported hearing one or two booms before the ship tilted.