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The Korea Coast Guard said it will strengthen maritime surveillance to prevent illegal activities by Chinese fishing boats who evacuate to South Korean waters in the event of bad weather. This is because more than 100 Chinese fishing boats have blocked passenger ships' routes in waters such as Mokpo, South Jeolla Province this year. The Korea Coast Guard plans to mobilize patrol vessels to crack down on illegal fishing by Chinese fishing boats or damage to fishing gear. It also decided to continue discussing various problems that arise during the emergency evacuation process with the Chinese fisheries guidance organization.
Chinese fishing boats can evacuate to 11 areas designated by the maritime police, including Jeju Hwasun Port, Ulleung Island Coast, and Hui Island in Shinan County, South Jeolla Province, based on the "Korea-China Fisheries Agreement" that came into effect in 2001.
An official of the Korea Coast Guard said, "We are providing humanitarian assistance so that foreign fishing boats can evacuate for safety in dangerous situations. We will block illegal activities in advance so as not to harm the Korean sea and fishermen."
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