The Tongyeong Coast Guard in Gyeongnam, South Korea, has recently introduced an advanced robot-type oil skimmer aimed at enhancing its capabilities in responding to marine pollution incidents. This innovative technology was showcased on March 18, 2025, during a demonstration at Jukrim Bay, indicating a significant step in the region's efforts to tackle environmental challenges associated with oil spills.
With the ability to operate from distances of up to 1 kilometer away, the robot oil skimmer can efficiently collect up to 200 liters of various types of oil, including low-viscosity oil, heavy oil, and hazardous and noxious substances (HNS) in a single operation. The Coast Guard's decision to adopt this robotic skimmer comes in light of recent oil spill accidents at Busan Gamcheon Port in February 2025 and Busan North Port in September 2025, which highlighted the need for improved response mechanisms.
Chief Lee Sang-in of the Tongyeong Coast Guard stated, “Robotic oil skimmers improve response efficiency and reduce safety risks.” This shift towards technology not only aims to enhance the speed and effectiveness of pollution containment efforts but also seeks to minimize the dangers traditionally associated with manual cleanup operations.
In addition to this technological advancement, the Tongyeong Coast Guard also recognized the heroic actions of a local fishing vessel's captain, Kim Jeong-ho, who successfully saved eight crew members from a burning ship. On March 10, 2025, at approximately 11:21 AM, a fire broke out on board the Aho, a fishing vessel with eight crew members, approximately 55 kilometers south of Gukdo in Tongyeong.
Hearing the distress signal, Captain Kim, who was fishing nearby on his vessel, the Cheongmyeongho, swiftly responded to the emergency. He coordinated with the Tongyeong Coast Guard to extinguish the fire, ultimately ensuring the safe evacuation of all crew members. This rapid response was crucial, preventing potential casualties and demonstrating the importance of vigilance and cooperation among local maritime operators.
Upon receiving a letter of appreciation from Chief Lee Sang-in for his timely intervention, Captain Kim remarked, “I just did what any fisherman would do; I'm glad I could help.” His humble acknowledgment underscores a shared ethos among maritime workers regarding their responsibilities toward one another in times of crisis.
Chief Lee emphasized the importance of community collaboration in maritime accidents, saying, “The cooperation of fishing vessels is crucial during maritime accidents.” This sentiment reflects a broader understanding that, while technology plays a vital role in marine safety, human action and quick decision-making are equally important.
The implementation of the robotic oil skimmer represents a profound transition in environmental management for the Tongyeong Coast Guard. By reducing the reliance on manual labor, the Coast Guard aims not only to increase its reaction speed to pollution incidents but also to lower the risk of accidents both for the rescuers and the environment. The recent successes seen with Captain Kim and the advanced robotic equipment point to a future where technological innovations continue to shape and improve maritime safety practices.
As the Tongyeong Coast Guard invests in cutting-edge solutions for environmental protection, the narrative highlighted by both the introduction of the robot skimmer and the heroic actions of Captain Kim serves as a reminder of the continued importance of safeguarding marine ecosystems and ensuring the safety of those who operate within them. As they forge ahead, the focus remains on community, technology, and timely response as cornerstones to fostering a resilient maritime environment.
