Navy Chief: "China Not Complying with International Law in West Sea PMZ"

National Assembly National Defense Committee Naval Audit

On October 23, Navy Chief of Staff Kang Donggil stated that he believes China is not complying with international law regarding the installation of structures within the West Sea Korea-China Provisional Measures Zone (PMZ).

Yonhap News Agency

Kang made this remark in response to a question from Kang Daesik, a lawmaker of the People Power Party, during the National Assembly National Defense Committee’s naval audit held in Gyeryong, South Chungcheong Province, that afternoon. A Navy official explained that Kang's comment meant China had failed to provide prior notification, as required, before installing structures within the PMZ.

In addition, when asked by National Defense Committee Chairman Sung Iljong whether China could use the structures to detect underwater power or expand them into military bases, Kang replied in the affirmative.

Kang further commented on China's efforts to turn the West Sea into its internal waters, saying, "China has superiority over us both in quality and quantity. China has three fleets, and two of them are adjacent to us. Since 2000, their operational activity has increased significantly, and the number of vessels has surged."

He added, "In contrast, with our smaller number of vessels, we must contend with both North Korea and China. As a result, not only combat ships but also landing ships and logistics support ships are being deployed in response."