Fifteen South Korean crew members have gone on trial over the deaths of at least 292 people in a ferry disaster.

Captain Lee Joon-seok, 69, and three others are being accused of "homicide through wilful negligence". The remaining crew face lesser charges.

The trial will focus on Mr Lee's escape from the sinking ferry while hundreds of passengers remained trapped inside.

Captain Lee Joon-seok came under fire for leaving the ship while passengers remained trapped

Most of the victims of the April disaster were school students, and many of their relatives are at the court.

If convicted, Mr Lee and three crew members could be handed the death penalty, but observers say it is extremely unlikely it would be carried out.

Eleven other crew are being tried on lesser charges of criminal negligence and maritime law violations.

(Source: BBC)