Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries to hold inaugural fishing crew safety and health rally

The Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries announced Thursday it will hold the inaugural Fishing Crew Safety and Health Rally on Friday at Samda Hall of the Jeju International Convention Center.

Organized for the first time this year, the event aims to embed fishing crew safety and health policy at the field level and promote a broader culture of safety. Around 100 participants are expected, including officials from the ministry and the Korea Maritime Transportation Safety Authority, heads of national fisheries associations, and fishing industry workers.

Nine vessel owners who have excelled in implementing onboard safety and health measures — including hazard assessments and other safety management practices — will receive certificates and cash prizes. Eight individuals who have contributed to advancing fishing vessel safety and health will also receive commendations.

Cash prizes are structured by award tier. Three recipients of the Minister of Oceans and Fisheries Award (grand prize) will each receive 3 million won (about $1,980), three recipients of the National Federation of Fisheries Cooperatives Chairman Award (excellence prize) will each receive 2 million won, and three recipients of the Korea Maritime Transportation Safety Authority President Award (merit prize) will each receive 1 million won.

The three grand prize winners will also present their on-site safety management practices and share their experiences with attendees.

As a special program, Matthew Camilleri, director of the Fisheries and Aquaculture Division at the UN Food and Agriculture Organization, will deliver a lecture on international fishing crew safety and health policy.

A policy seminar on safety and health for fishing industry workers and an expert panel discussion on improving safety and health management frameworks for fishers will follow.

"I extend my gratitude and congratulations to the honorees and outstanding vessel owners who have worked to embed fishing crew safety and health policy in the field and spread a culture of safety," Minister Hwang Jong-woo said. "We will continue to develop and support field-centered policies so that all fishing crew members can work in a safe and healthy environment."