Yellow Sea Stand-off Heightens Tensions Between China and South Korea
A stand-off between South Korean and Chinese coastguards over a steel structure in the Yellow Sea has emerged, escalating tensions. The situation began when Chinese vessels blocked South Korea’s research ship from inspecting the structure, described by China as an aquafarm. South Korea’s government emphasized its commitment to protecting maritime rights.
A recent confrontation between South Korean and Chinese coastguard vessels has heightened tensions between the two countries. This incident, which occurred last month, involved South Korea attempting to investigate a steel structure in the Yellow Sea, reportedly constructed by China without Seoul’s authorization. The stand-off lasted over two hours as Chinese vessels, accompanied by civilian boats, obstructed the South Korean research ship Onnuri from conducting its survey.
During the encounter, South Korea dispatched a coastguard vessel in response to the blockade, asserting the legitimacy of its inspection. Conversely, Chinese authorities contended that the structure was an aquafarm, requesting the South Korean vessel to depart. Although reports indicated that some Chinese civilians wielded knives, no physical altercations occurred.
In light of this incident, South Korea’s foreign ministry has been proactive, coordinating with relevant governmental agencies to safeguard the nation’s maritime rights in the Yellow Sea. Ministry spokesperson Lee Jae-woong affirmed, “We have also delivered our firm position to China regarding the reported incident.”
The recent stand-off between South Korean and Chinese coastguard vessels signifies increasing tensions over maritime rights in the Yellow Sea. South Korea asserts its inspection rights, while China claims the structure in question is an aquafarm. The incident reflects ongoing disputes in the region, with South Korea’s government actively seeking to protect its interests.
Original Source: www.scmp.com
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