The icebreaker research vessel Araon (ARAON).

The icebreaker research vessel Araon will embark on an Arctic exploration voyage on the 3rd, the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries announced on the 2nd. Araon will explore the Arctic Ocean for 91 days and acquire topographical data for the operation of the Arctic route.

According to the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries, sea ice in the Arctic has recently been rapidly declining. As a result, changes in global atmospheric circulation structures affecting the marine ecosystem are also being detected. A representative from the ministry noted that it is important to observe the actual changes in the Arctic to accurately understand the causes of extreme weather phenomena such as heatwaves and cold snaps originating from the Arctic.

During this voyage, Araon will navigate along major Arctic seas, including the Bering Sea, East Siberian Sea, Chukchi Sea, and Beaufort Sea, to conduct a thorough investigation of the impact of declining sea ice on adjacent ecosystems and the phenomenon of permafrost collapse.

Dr. Yang Eun-jin's research team from the Korea Polar Research Institute (KOPRI) will collect data by retrieving long-term mooring equipment installed last year. The research team also plans to conduct comprehensive ocean-atmosphere observations by remaining on the ice for a certain period to measure the thickness and roughness of the ice as well as the underwater acoustic environment.

Dr. Hong Jong-guk's research team will conduct an international joint exploration in the Beaufort Sea of Canada in collaboration with researchers from the United States and Canada. This area is experiencing permafrost collapse, during which large amounts of methane gas are released. Methane is known to be many times more powerful in greenhouse effects than carbon dioxide, making it an important clue for understanding climate change in the Arctic region and its ripple effects.

Minister Gang Do-hyung said, 'The changes in the Arctic are not tales of the distant future, but a reality connected to our lives today,' and he requested, 'I ask for the public's interest and support so that Araon can successfully complete its mission and return safely.'

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