The regular ferry route connecting Gwangyang, South Jeolla Province, and Japan may reopen after 14 years. Gwangyang City announced on August 31 that it is publicly soliciting ferry operators.
Interested shipping companies must submit their letters of intent, route proposals, and documentation proving vessel availability by September 3.
The city plans to select a 'preferred partner' and begin the necessary procedures to establish the route.
The selected operator will have access to port infrastructure, including the Gwangyang International Passenger Terminal, and will receive administrative support from customs, immigration, and quarantine agencies, as well as assistance in attracting cargo and passengers.
Once the shipping company secures a maritime transport business license from the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries in consultation with Japanese ports, the route will be established.
A ferry route to Shimonoseki, Japan, was opened from Gwangyang in January 2011 but ceased operations in February 2012 due to operating losses.
Gwangyang Mayor Park Seong-hyeon stated, "The establishment of an international ferry route will be a turning point in developing Gwangyang Port as a hub for marine tourism and global logistics along the southern coast, and I hope competitive shipping companies will participate."
* This article has been translated by AI.
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