No Blind Spots in Passenger Ship Safety During the Summer Vacation Season!

- MOF to conduct a joint special inspection of all coastal passenger ships with related organizations from Monday, June 30 to Friday, July 11

 The Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries (MOF; Minister Kang Do-hyung) announced that it would be conducting special inspections of 146 coastal passenger ships nationwide for 12 days from Monday, June 30 to Friday, July 11 in preparation for the summer vacation season.

 MOF conducts safety inspections of coastal passenger ships before departure every day and special inspections of all passenger ships jointly with the relevant organizations when the number of passengers increases, such as holidays and vacation seasons.

 This summer's special inspection will be jointly conducted by 15 public safety inspectors from the relevant organizations, including the Regional Office of Oceans and Fisheries (Maritime Safety Supervisor), Coast Guard, Korea Maritime Transportation Safety Authority (KOMSA; Operation Manager and Inspector), and general public.

 The inspection thoroughly examines passenger vessels to ensure full compliance in all critical areas including proper maintenance of navigation, communication, and engine equipment and operational readiness of firefighting and lifesaving devices. Additionally, in preparation for the expected surge in holiday travelers, special emphasis will be placed on enforcing safe boarding/disembarking protocols and emergency response procedures for typhoons and other maritime disasters.

 MOF will mandate immediate correction on-site for any identified deficiencies. To guarantee passenger safety, all remaining issues must be resolved by July 25 when the special summer traffic period begins.

 “As this summer is expected to be hotter than usual, MOF will thoroughly conduct preliminary inspections to ensure that all citizens can enjoy a cool, safe vacation at the sea,” Minister Kang Do-hyung said.