KMI Releases Study on Institutional Improvement Measures for Remote Operation of Ships

Directions for Revising Domestic Laws and Systems
in Response to the MASS Code

The Korea Maritime Institute (KMI) has published a study titled "Research on Institutional Improvement Measures for Remote Operation of Ships" (Basic Research 2024-17), proposing directions for revising domestic laws and systems in preparation for the introduction of the Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships (MASS) Code by the International Maritime Organization (IMO).

Participants of the 2024 Global Advanced Marine Mobility International Forum held in September 2024 are taking a commemorative photo. (Arsenio Dominguez, Secretary-General of the International Maritime Organization IMO, 11th from the right) Photo by KMI

This study focuses on exploring institutional improvement measures to proactively respond to the development of the shipping and shipbuilding industries based on digital and information and communication technology (ICT), as well as changes in the maritime traffic environment resulting from the introduction of remote and autonomous ships.

Through the research, KMI presented three key strategies for the stable introduction and operation of remotely operated ships: establishing the definition and legal status of remotely operated ships; institutional responses to changes in future ship operation processes; and institutional improvements for building operational environments, including ship technology and safety management.

In particular, the research team emphasized the need for effective policy design that harmonizes with international standards while reflecting the unique characteristics of the domestic shipping industry. With the adoption of the MASS Code approaching, the revision of relevant domestic laws and policy support were identified as core tasks for preparing for the era of remote operation.

Park Hyeri, Associate Research Fellow (lead researcher), explained, "Remotely operated ships will fundamentally change the way the shipping industry operates," adding, "We focused on developing institutional solutions that align with international discussions while safeguarding the competitiveness of the domestic industry."

Cho Jeonghee, President of the Korea Maritime Institute, stated, "Remote and autonomous operation technologies are key drivers for enhancing the competitiveness of the shipping and shipbuilding industries." He added, "We hope that this research will contribute to revising laws and systems and improving policies in line with changes in the future maritime traffic environment, and serve as a foundation for establishing a safe and efficient remote operation system."