South Korea is announcing a 6.7% increase in its Coast Guard budget to strengthen maritime operations and improve safety in the country's western waters. This budget increase amounts to 2.2 trillion won (approximately 1.6 billion dollars) and is dedicated to enhancing the Coast Guard's capabilities in combating illegal fishing and ensuring public maritime safety.
Increase in Coast Guard Vessels
The Coast Guard's plans include increasing the number of 3000-ton class vessels from 11 to 17 by 2030. Government officials have stated that previously the focus was on replacing aging vessels, but now the main goal is to enhance the protection of maritime sovereignty and the ability to conduct extensive patrols in key areas.
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This year, a new vessel has been added to the fleet, and another 3000-ton class vessel is set to be commissioned next month. Additionally, plans are in place to add another vessel in the second half of 2027 and three more vessels between 2027 and 2030. This increase in vessels aims to strengthen the response system for maritime incidents and coastal security.
Investment in Maritime Safety
Plans for increased investment in public safety and strengthening patrol assets in the western sea are a significant part of South Korea's national policies to ensure maritime sovereignty and safe waters. This investment includes 32 million dollars for completing the construction of vessels under construction and 37 million dollars for starting the construction of additional vessels, bringing total investments to over 266 million dollars.
The new vessels are designed to be suitable for long-range and extended-duration patrols. Each vessel is 122 meters long with a range of up to 6000 nautical miles and has a maximum speed of 24 knots. These vessels are also equipped with naval weapons and suitable equipment for maritime operations.
The Coast Guard has also planned to increase the number of 500-ton vessels specifically designated for combating illegal foreign fishing. This group will be expanded gradually, with the construction of two vessels starting in 2026 and 2027, involving an investment of 65.5 million dollars.
According to government officials, strengthening investments in public safety and maritime patrols will enhance South Korea's maritime sovereignty and enable the Coast Guard to increase its capacity to combat illegal fishing and improve the coastal safety response system.
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