The South Korean government plans to enhance its maritime security response system in the Yellow Sea by expanding its fleet of 3,000-ton coast guard vessels from 11 to 17 by 2030.
On September 21, the Ministry of Strategy and Finance, along with the Korea Coast Guard, inspected key projects in the upcoming budget at the Yellow Sea 5 Islands Special Guard Unit, Incheon Coast Guard exclusive dock, and the Yeongjongdo Sky Sea Police Station.
During the visit to the Yellow Sea 5 Islands Special Guard Unit's comprehensive situation room, officials reviewed the response status to illegal foreign fishing vessels near the Northern Limit Line (NLL) and the overall maritime security activities. At the Incheon Coast Guard exclusive dock, they also checked the operation of major security forces, including the 3,000-ton coast guard vessels.
The government aims to strengthen its maritime security response system in the Yellow Sea and undefined boundary areas by increasing the number of 3,000-ton coast guard vessels. This initiative is part of a broader effort to enhance maritime sovereignty in key areas such as the Korea-China provisional measures zone. The budget for next year includes 43.9 billion won for completing the construction of one vessel already underway and 51.2 billion won for starting the construction of three new vessels.
Additionally, measures to strengthen the crackdown on illegal foreign fishing vessels have been established. The plan includes gradually increasing the number of dedicated enforcement vessels, with an allocation of 9 billion won in the 2027 budget for the construction of two additional vessels.
The budget for personal protective equipment, such as maritime suppression suits, will be increased from 1.4 billion won to 2.5 billion won, and 2.1 billion won will be allocated for improving training facilities for special forces to ensure their safety. To prevent coastal accidents and enable rapid responses, 22 coastal patrol drones will be prioritized for distribution next year, with plans to gradually expand this initiative by 2029 based on operational results.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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