South Korea monitoring China-installed buoys, citing possible military purpose

South Korea is closely monitoring China-installed buoys near the western maritime boundary, amid growing concerns they may serve military surveillance purposes. According to newly released photos from the South Korean Navy, 13 buoys of varying sizes and designs were deployed by China in and around the Provisional Measures Zone (PMZ) between February 2018 and May 2023.

These buoys, some reaching nearly 10 meters in height and equipped with solar panels or lighthouse-like structures, bear labels such as “Marine Surveillance Buoy” or “CO₂ Flow Monitoring Buoy.” Markings include serial codes like QF107 to QF222 and references to China Power Construction, a state-owned enterprise under China’s State Council.

Location and Function Raise Red Flags

The buoys are mainly concentrated along the 123 to 124 degrees east longitude, an area China has unilaterally declared as part of its maritime operational zone. Some buoys include lighthouse features and display signs pointing to oceanographic or climate monitoring use. However, South Korean officials warn their true function remains uncertain unless physically inspected.

A South Korean military official stated, “Although China claims these are for weather and ocean monitoring, we cannot rule out the possibility of military applications, such as submarine detection.” Analysts have raised concerns that the deployment may be a “gray zone” tactic to push for de facto control of the Yellow Sea between South Korea and China and monitor South Korean naval drills in international waters.

Korean Response and Ongoing Tensions

To counterbalance, South Korea has also installed multiple weather buoys in the area through agencies like the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries and the Korea Meteorological Administration, though officials acknowledge their presence is comparatively limited.

Last month, the Chinese military declared a navigation ban in parts of the PMZ and conducted military exercises. In response, the South Korean Navy dispatched vessels to the area. A Joint Chiefs of Staff official confirmed that the military is analyzing the scale and nature of the Chinese drills.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs also acknowledged the potential for military surveillance, stating, “We are monitoring the situation closely in coordination with relevant ministries.” Officials emphasized that Korea has deployed its own buoys in a proportionate response and will continue to take necessary measures.

BY LEE YUJEONG  [uuu@joongang.co.kr]