(2nd LD) Capsized boat found off South Korea's southwest coast

(ATTN: UPDATES throughout)

WANDO, South Korea, Feb. 28 (Yonhap) -- A capsized boat has been found in waters off South Korea's southwest coast, local maritime police said Wednesday.

The boat was found floating upside down by a passing ship near Wando, South Jeolla Province, at around 4:30 p.m., according to the police.

It is presumed to be a 7.93-ton fishing boat which has been out of contact since leaving a port on Wando two days earlier, based on log data. Seven crew are said to have been on board.

The fishing boat was last located near the area at about 1:26 p.m.

Fifteen patrol boats and rescue workers were sent to the scene but their search and rescue efforts have been hampered by strong winds and high waves, the police said.

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