Seoul
South Korea’s Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries has announced plans to nearly double the country’s marine protected area by 2027, aiming to address climate change and safeguard ocean ecosystems for future generations. Currently, marine protected areas cover 1.8% of South Korean waters, which the government aims to expand to 3% by the end of President Yoon Suk Yeol’s term in 2027.
In addition to expanding marine protection, South Korea will intensify efforts to reduce ocean pollution, focusing on abandoned fishing equipment like nets and buoys, which make up 75% of marine waste. To manage this, the ministry will increase its deposit return system from 26% to 60% by 2027, encouraging more responsible disposal of fishing gear.
South Korea also plans to simplify 15,000 fishing regulations to improve industry efficiency and will regulate the total allowable catch, adapting to the changing oceanic environment. A further priority is enhancing aquaculture, which currently produces 60% of the country’s seafood, through the adoption of smart technologies.
Oceans Minister Kang Do-hyung stated that the ministry is committed to making South Korea a “leading maritime nation” with a vibrant, eco-friendly marine economy.
