South Korea strongly opposed the presence of Chinese structures in the West Sea during high-level maritime talks held in Seoul. The government requested that China relocate three such facilities outside the Provisional Measures Zone. These Chinese structures in the West Sea have stirred growing concerns among South Korean officials.
The meeting, which lasted 12 hours, brought together key representatives from both countries. They addressed a range of maritime issues, including illegal fishing and boundary disputes. South Korea’s Foreign Ministry stated that despite disagreements, both sides agreed to maintain open communication and avoid hindering diplomatic ties.
The structures, built by China between 2018 and 2024, sit within the jointly managed West Sea zone. Seoul believes these facilities violate the Korea-China Fisheries Agreement, which established the zone in 2000. The area lacks a clear maritime boundary, complicating enforcement.
South Korean officials drew attention to China’s past behavior in the South and East China Seas. They highlighted cases of artificial island construction and military installations in contested waters. These precedents have increased concerns about the Chinese structures in the West Sea.
Director-General Kang Young-shin led South Korea’s delegation, while Hong Liang represented China. During the meeting, Kang emphasized that China must not infringe on Korea’s maritime rights. China responded by claiming the structures serve aquaculture purposes and involve private company investments.
One such facility, called Atlantic Amsterdam, appeared in 2022 under the guise of aquaculture management. It followed two earlier constructions: Shenlan-1 in 2018 and Shenlan-2 in 2024. China claimed Shenlan-1 and Shenlan-2 are floating units, not fixed installations.
South Korea rejected this explanation and called for full removal of the structures. Officials argued these Chinese structures in the West Sea disrupt fishing and navigation. They also warned that failure to act could result in proportional countermeasures.
Although Seoul suspects plans for a fourth facility, it believes Beijing may hold back for now. However, South Korea made it clear that no further installations will be tolerated.
To address ongoing concerns, both nations agreed to form two working subcommittees. One will focus on maritime disputes, while the other will handle practical cooperation like joint rescue missions.
This session marked the first in-person meeting of the Korea-China Maritime Cooperation Dialogue. Delegations from both sides included officials from foreign ministries, defense agencies, fisheries departments, and coast guards.
The next meeting will take place in China at a mutually agreed time. Both countries aim to reduce tensions while managing complex maritime issues.
