Regarding the unauthorized installation of a fixed maritime structure by China in the West Sea Precautionary Measures Zone (PMZ), Minister Gang said on the 21st, “We are strongly protesting (to China) through diplomatic authorities” and noted, “We are viewing this matter very seriously from the perspective of its importance and upholding our maritime territory.
During a briefing held that day in the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries press room at the Government Sejong Center, Minister Gang stated, “I understand that the structure in question is a simple maritime structure,” and added, “The specific resources have yet to be confirmed.
He continued, “The maritime structure in the form of a drilling rig was first discovered by our fishing guidance vessel in March 2022, and this was communicated to the diplomatic authorities,” and mentioned, “We are considering various responses related to it.” He added, “We are thinking about what is practically possible, including proportional measures. The government will respond collectively.
Earlier, Chosunilbo reported that it had analyzed multiple satellite images commissioned from the U.S. satellite company SkyFi, revealing that the structure measures 100 meters wide and 80 meters long. The report also indicated that, according to the vessel's history, it was built in France in 1982 and had been used as an oil drilling rig in the Middle East before being decommissioned in 2016.