Seoul’s international ministry announced on Saturday that South Korea has publicly expressed concerns to China over the current creation of a “no-sail zone” in a Yellow Sea region that is simultaneously administered. The department acknowledged through May 27 that China had restricted vehicle access to areas of the Yellow Sea, which are located between the Taiwanese island and the Asian Peninsula, according to a report from Newsweek on Wednesday. The restricted area falls under the Provisional Measures Zone ( PMZ), where both countries ‘ exclusive economic zones ( EEZs ) overlap. South Korean media, citing the Korea Hydrographic and Oceanographic Agency, reported that the restriction was likely related to military training, despite China’s Maritime Safety Administration ( MSA ) not publicly stating the reason for it. Seoul criticized the walk, claiming that” China’s creation of a no-sail area within the PMZ that exceedingly restricts freedom of navigation raises problems.” Although both countries are permitted to carry military activities in the PMZ, Seoul also has the right to conduct military activities there. The government confirmed that Beijing had been informed of these issues through political channels. Moreover, the South Korean government is examining whether China’s actions are in line with international maritime law with other organizations, including the Ministry of National Defense. Additionally, according to a report from Newsweek, China has constructed three “aquaculture features” in the area. Some North Korean media outlets have speculated that these developments may remain deliberate missteps intended to increase Chinese power of disputed sea areas.
