That day students of Tanwon High School, who presented themselves as witnesses at the trial regarding the crew of ferry Sewol, said that they did not receive any help from the crew and marine police during escape from the ferry.

Many students waited for a rescue team at the corridor heading to an emergency door, but they failed to escape as waves surged into the door, the witnesses said, and went on:

The marine police just kept looking at the emergency door even after hearing that many students were inside it.

Meanwhile, the crewmen repeatedly broadcasted "Stay calm". Many people could have been rescued if there were only a broadcasting calling for an escape.

The survivors demanded severe punishment of those who turned away from the rescue including the crewmen.