Busan: President Lee Jae Myung on Tuesday denounced the illegal fishing activities of Chinese fishermen in Korea's exclusive economic zone (EEZ) in the West Sea, describing these actions as unacceptable and urging the Korea Coast Guard to intensify their enforcement efforts.
According to Yonhap News Agency, during a policy briefing at the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries in Busan, Lee directed the Coast Guard to adopt unprecedented measures to combat illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing. He inquired about the progress made since his last directive to seize as many Chinese vessels as possible, with Jang In-sik, the acting commissioner general of the Korea Coast Guard, reporting that 56 vessels had been seized to date.
President Lee emphasized the need for stringent financial penalties that would surpass the collective fines typically paid by Chinese fishermen. He cited Indonesia's success in reducing illegal fishing through forceful measures as an example, while clarifying that Korea would not adopt identical tactics but should still impose overwhelming deterrents.
Lee's comments have drawn attention due to his previous reputation for being lenient towards China. His strong stance underscores the significance of national sovereignty and the protection of Korean fishermen's livelihoods, which are threatened by the influx of Chinese vessels during peak fishing seasons.
The illegal fishing activities have not only depleted fish stocks but have also escalated into a diplomatic issue, challenging Korea's sovereign rights within its EEZ. The Korea Coast Guard has faced resistance, including violent actions by Chinese fishermen, leading to injuries and fatalities among Coast Guard personnel.
President Lee's firm position on this issue reflects his commitment to safeguarding Korea's sovereign rights and ensuring that such violations do not go unchecked. His remarks align with his broader foreign policy approach of "practical diplomacy," emphasizing the primacy of Korea's sovereignty in international relations.