The South Korean government is set to accelerate its Arctic route development initiative with the establishment of a new Arctic Route Committee under the Prime Minister's office, which will also focus on training professionals in related fields.
On May 7, the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries announced that three key bills—"Sustainable Coastal Fisheries Development Act," "Special Act on Promoting the Use of the Arctic Route and Supporting Related Industries," and amendments to the "Shipping Act"—passed the National Assembly.
The Arctic route initiative is a major policy project for the ministry, which has already laid the groundwork by launching the Arctic Route Promotion Headquarters. The passage of the Arctic Route Special Act enables the formation of the Arctic Route Committee, which will facilitate the establishment of a basic plan, professional training, and financial support across government agencies.
Additionally, the new legislation aims to reorganize the administrative framework for coastal fisheries, mandating reporting on fishing locations and catch data by species. It also establishes the basis for issuing catch certificates.
The name of the state-subsidized route, which covers all operational losses, will change to "Public Route." The revised Shipping Act allows public institutions to manage these routes, enhancing safety through specialized oversight. The ministry plans to delegate some routes to public entities next year, with a full transfer expected by 2028.
Minister of Oceans and Fisheries Hwang Jong-woo stated, "We will work diligently on the subordinate regulations and ensure the smooth implementation of the laws that have passed the National Assembly."
* This article has been translated by AI.
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