China grateful for ROK boat rescue: FM spokesman

A Foreign Ministry spokesman on Tuesday expressed gratitude for the Republic of Korea (ROK)'s help in rescuing a Chinese fishing boat in distress.

"The ROK coast guard conducted two rescue operations after a Chinese fishing boat flooded in waters near the southwest ROK's Jeollanam province early Monday morning," spokesman Hong Lei said at a daily press briefing.

Hong said the 14 Chinese sailors onboard have been taken care of and will return to China after their boat is repaired.

"The Chinese embassy in Seoul will maintain contact with the ROK and offer any necessary assistance," Hong said.