South Korea detects over 6,600 illegal fishing cases since 2021

Data released by the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries reveals that 6,636 cases of illegal fishing were detected in South Korea between 2021 and August 2026. The findings, presented by National Assembly member Kim Sun-kyo, highlight ongoing threats to fishery resources and the livelihoods of fishermen.

Violations were categorized by type, with gear violations (1,395 cases) and unlicensed or unauthorized fishing (1,369 cases) being the most frequent. Other infractions included prohibited capture and collection, fishing zone violations, and permit restrictions.

Regional enforcement data shows the West Sea Fisheries Management Service recorded the highest number of detections (1,658), followed by the South Sea (1,443) and East Sea (1,022) management services. Geographically, South Jeolla Province saw the highest number of enforcement actions with 947 cases.

Legal consequences for these activities totaled 4,447 instances, comprising 2,006 judicial punishments such as fines, 1,789 administrative measures including fishery suspensions, and 652 fines.