Incheon, South Korea ― On Thursday, the South Korean navy conducted a public discussion as part of its efforts to gather expertise in maritime security. Nearly a thousand participants gathered on the navy’s symbolic ship, the Dokdo-ham, an amphibious landing vessel named after a South Korean island. The conference took place at the Incheon International Cruise Terminal while the ship was anchored.
“As the Korean Peninsula is enveloped by the ocean, bordered on three sides by different seas, maritime power stands as a cornerstone of our nation’s future,” remarked Yang Yong-mo, Chief of Naval Operations for the Republic of Korea Navy, during his opening speech at the 21st Shipboard Symposium. “Furthermore, strengthening maritime power is not merely an option but a mission, particularly in light of the ongoing hegemonic competition between the United States and China across the Indian Ocean and the Pacific,” emphasized the Chief before the assembled audience.
In December 2022, the South Korean government introduced its Indo-Pacific Strategy, with the goal of elevating the nation to a “Global Pivotal State.” The strategy notably underscores the significance of maritime security in achieving its vision of freedom, peace, and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region, and emphasizes the need for comprehensive security cooperation. A year later, in December 2023, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs unveiled 52 action plans as part of the strategy, designating 2024 as the transformative period for implementation.
Choi Yoon-hee, President of the Sea Power League of the Republic of Korea and a former marine who served as the Chief of Naval Operations from 2011 to 2013, called for nationwide attention to maritime security. “We are currently confronted with significant maritime challenges that remain largely unresolved,” cautioned the President. “However, apart from those directly involved in the field, few demonstrate substantial interest in these issues. It is imperative for the nation to commence efforts to raise public awareness on maritime security and foster a national consensus in addressing maritime security concerns.”
Choi further emphasized that the South Korean navy should take proactive actions, not limiting its role to dealing with North Korean threats. “Our navy’s mission must evolve in response to external situations, extending beyond the confines of the Korean Peninsula. We must liberate ourselves from the constraints solely focused on North Korean threats and broaden our perspective to encompass the larger world, thereby advancing our national interests,” added the President.
In a keynote speech, Kim Sung-han, a former National Security Advisor, shared his insights on maritime security, particularly emphasizing the concept of Maritime Domain Awareness (MDA). According to the International Maritime Organization, MDA encompasses the effective understanding of anything associated with the maritime domain that could impact security, safety, economy, or the environment.
“To strengthen our maritime power, it is imperative to enhance the capabilities of ASEAN countries in maritime security,” said Kim. “As we have previously agreed to launch a maritime security framework with Southeast Asia, South Korea must actively engage in international discussions related to MDA, foster cooperation in information sharing, and establish a multinational MDA system designed to comprehensively share maritime intelligence and assess potential impacts on national security, economic security, and the environment. By specifying maritime cooperation with other countries, we will be better equipped to manage risks in the region.”
