Typhoon Kalmaegi Unearths Ancient Shipwreck in Vietnam

Typhoon Kalmaegi has revealed an ancient shipwreck in the Ancient City of Hoi An, Vietnam. The ship, at least 17.4 meters long, is estimated to have been built between the 14th and 16th centuries.

Severe coastal erosion caused by the typhoon has made the discovery and potential salvage of the shipwreck possible. Experts from the Hoi An Conservation Center, the University of Social Sciences and Humanities of Ho Chi Minh City, and a local museum have examined the wreck.

Preliminary findings indicate that the ship was made of durable wood and intended for long-distance travel, possibly for maritime trade. Pham Phu Ngoc, director of the Hoi An World Cultural Heritage Conservation Center, stated that the discovery is clear evidence of Hoi An's historical role in regional trade.

Authorities are preparing to apply for an emergency excavation, as the shipwreck is at risk of deterioration due to coastal erosion and weather conditions.