Dozens of fishing vessels line Guryongpo Port in Pohang, North Gyeongsang Province, on the afternoon of April 6, remaining docked as owners abandon operations.
Fuel Prices Skyrocket Due to Mideast Conflict
Surging oil prices, triggered by the ongoing Mideast war, have forced fishermen to halt voyages. Crews report that even daily outings yield no profit amid the crisis.
Local fishermen express frustration over the sharp rise in duty-free fuel costs. “Fuel prices jumped from 170,000 won to 270,000 won per 200 liters—even running boats leaves nothing,” one stated.
Compounding issues include crew wages and loan interests. “We lie awake at night, anxious about wages, debts, and whether to head to Geoje shipyards,” another added, highlighting fears of decommissioning vessels.
