독도 수호의 파수꾼, 독도평화호의 60% 정비 완료! 무엇이 바뀌나?

Ulleung County’s Dokdo Management Office Reports Progress on Vessel Overhaul Hull Painting and Main Engine Maintenance 60% Complete

ULLEUNG ISLAND, South Korea — The Dokdo Peace, a vessel crucial for maintaining South Korea’s administrative presence on Dokdo Island, is currently undergoing a comprehensive overhaul to ensure its continued service in the disputed waters.

Officials from the Dokdo Management Office reported on Wednesday that the vessel has been in dry dock at a shipyard in Pohang since January 9. The refurbishment process has reached approximately 60% completion.

This maintenance cycle is critical for ensuring the vessel’s operational readiness. Since being dry-docked on February 8, crews have successfully completed propulsion system repairs, hull cleaning, main engine maintenance, and mandatory liferaft inspections.

Current efforts are focused on main engine repairs and engine room overhaul. The vessel’s exterior has received a fresh coat of paint, significantly improving its appearance.

Im Jang-won, director of the Ulleung County Dokdo Management Office, stated, “Barring any unforeseen issues with the main engine’s exhaust system or asbestos removal from certain piping, we expect the Dokdo Peace to resume its vital mission in early April.”

Commissioned in June 2009, the Dokdo Peace represents a 8 billion KRW (6 million USD) investment, including 5.6 billion KRW (4.2 million USD) in national funding. The 122-foot aluminum-hulled vessel can transport up to 80 passengers at speeds reaching 37 knots, completing the Ulleungdo-Dokdo round trip in approximately five hours.

The vessel’s name, “Dokdo Peace,” was chosen through a nationwide naming contest. Since its launch, it has maintained an impeccable service record, playing a crucial role in asserting South Korea’s sovereignty over Dokdo, facilitating Coast Guard rotations, and supporting the island’s residents.

Captain Jung Hyun-cheol expressed his commitment to the mission, stating, “Upon completion of this overhaul, we will immediately return to Dokdo’s waters, ready to carry out our vital role in safeguarding Korean interests in the region.”

tk@tf.co.kr