Mokpo's ferry route for island residents, which faced potential disruptions due to the lack of an operator, will continue normal operations thanks to the collaboration between Mokpo's administrative department, the city council, and a private shipping company.
In particular, Jo Yong-seon, head of Mokpo's Marine Development Division, has been recognized for his proactive efforts to secure operating compensation by negotiating with the city council and directly persuading the shipping company, highlighting a case of active administration.
On September 14, Mokpo City signed a memorandum of understanding with Haejin Shipping to ensure stable operations for the Mokpo-Dalido-Jangjwa-Yuldo-Oedaldo route.
Under the agreement, Haejin Shipping will operate the route regularly from September 20 until September 19, 2028.
Haejin Shipping will manage passenger ferry operations and vessel safety, while Mokpo City will provide necessary administrative support to maintain the route's stability.
The process leading to this agreement was not smooth.
Due to the age of the ferries previously used on the route, it became necessary to secure a new operator. However, repeated attempts to solicit operators were unsuccessful, raising concerns about residents' access to transportation.
Five calls for operators were made, but no participating companies were confirmed.
The ferry serves as a vital public transportation link for residents of Dalido, Jangjwa, Yuldo, and Oedaldo, and any interruption in service could directly impact their daily lives.
In response, Jo Yong-seon and his team engaged in discussions with the city council to secure operating compensation while continuing negotiations to find a new operator.
Jo personally visited Haejin Shipping to explain the transportation needs of Mokpo's island residents and the importance of maintaining the route.
The Mokpo City Council also supported these efforts, recognizing the need for budget allocation for operating compensation to ensure transportation rights for island residents, which laid the groundwork for negotiating specific operating conditions with Haejin Shipping.
Ultimately, the route issue, which could not be resolved through solicitation alone, found a breakthrough through administrative and council budget support and negotiations with the private shipping company.
Jo Yong-seon stated, "For island residents, the ferry is not just a transportation option; it is an essential means of daily life. We will work closely with Haejin Shipping to ensure the route remains stable and prioritize safe operations."
The normalization of this route is significant not only for residents' transportation rights but also for boosting island tourism.
With a stable regular route from Mokpo to Dalido, Jangjwa, Yuldo, and Oedaldo, accessibility to Mokpo's island areas, including Oedaldo, is expected to improve, aiding in attracting tourists.
Mayor Kang Seong-hwi remarked, "For island residents, the ferry is an indispensable transportation means. We will spare no effort in providing administrative support to ensure safe and stable operations."
Meanwhile, the Mokpo-Oedaldo route is a key transportation line for residents, connecting Dalido, Jangjwa, and Yuldo. With the agreement with Haejin Shipping, Mokpo City plans to maintain a regular operation system for two years starting on the 20th, focusing on securing a stable maritime transport network for residents and enhancing island tourism.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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