West Sea Coast Guard launches special crackdown on illegally modified vessels starting Nov. 9
Enforcement to focus on unauthorized changes to hull dimensions, post-inspection structural additions and engine modifications
The West Sea Regional Coast Guard announced Tuesday it will conduct a four-week special crackdown on illegally modified vessels from Nov. 9 to Dec. 6, aiming to eliminate unauthorized alterations that could lead to capsizing, fires and other serious maritime accidents.
The western and southern sea regions have a high concentration of fishing vessels nationwide, making illegal modifications particularly common in the area. Over the past three years, authorities caught 319 vessels with illegal modifications — 144 cases involving vessels that had undergone major repairs without obtaining the required interim inspections, and 175 cases involving violations of vessel condition requirements, such as unauthorized structural installations.
The crackdown will focus on three categories of violations: unauthorized changes to a vessel's key hull dimensions — including its length, width and depth — through cutting or extending the hull without a permit; unauthorized installation of superstructures, cabins, bathrooms or stern buoyancy sections after regular or interim inspections; and unauthorized modifications to engines or electrical systems, such as installing generators or replacing propulsion engines after inspection.
Before the crackdown begins, the West Sea Coast Guard plans to issue advance notices to owners of illegally modified vessels through Nov. 8, encouraging them to voluntarily restore their vessels to their original condition and obtain the necessary inspections. During the enforcement period, the agency will work with related organizations, including the Korea Maritime Transportation Safety Authority, to strengthen the effectiveness of the crackdown. Vessels found in violation will be subject to measures including a ban on departure until the violations are resolved, in accordance with relevant regulations.
"Illegal vessel modifications undermine vessel safety and can lead to major maritime accidents," West Sea Regional Coast Guard Commissioner Baek Hak-seon said. "We will work closely with relevant agencies to strictly enforce the law against illegal modifications." He also urged vessel owners to comply with applicable regulations to help create a safer maritime environment.
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