“We will begin pilot operations next year… and establish a team dedicated to the Arctic shipping route project within the government later this year to devise a mid- to long-term road map,” Chun said in an exclusive interview with Yonhap News Agency.
Chun highlighted the growing international competition in the Arctic, particularly from Russia, China, and the United States.
The minister highlighted the urgency of South Korea’s plans in the region, stating that the country will run trial operations “as soon as possible” to avoid falling behind competitors as Arctic routes become navigable year-round earlier than many expected.
