The Seoul Municipal Government on Thursday launched emergency safety checks on cruise chips and construction sites in the city following the sinking of the ferry off the southern coast of the country, officials said.

The city suspended the operation of six cruise ships operating on the Hangang River and conducted an emergency safety inspection. Some 1,000 vessels operating on the river will also face inspections, officials added.

The city will also enhance safety checks on about 80 construction sites where some 3,000 employees are working. The inspections will be led by high-ranking city officials.

The city called off the mayor’s previous schedule and other events.

By Lee Hyun-jeong (rene@heraldcorp.com)