A Comparative Study on Fishing Vessel Management Systems in Korea and Japan

This study compares the fishing vessel management systems of Korea and Japan to propose measures for establishing a preventive-oriented safety management framework in Korea. Analysis of relevant laws, policies, statistics, and literature shows that Korea’s initiatives—such as vessel decommissioning, V-Pass installation, and modernization—remain limited by weak system integration and a reactive approach. Japan, by contrast, combines institutional, technological, and financial measures, including AIS/EPIRB mandates, smart vessel promotion, preventive maintenance records, and income stabilization, achieving notable safety and stability gains. Findings suggest Korea should enhance system linkages, adopt preventive policies, integrate safety equipment with insurance, and institutionalize income stabilization to ensure sustainable safety management.