South Korea Worries Over Chinese Structures in Disputed Yellow Sea

South Korea is growing uneasy about China building structures in a disputed part of the Yellow Sea, a shared area where both countries’ maritime zones overlap. During a meeting in Seoul on Wednesday, South Korean officials raised concerns that China might be trying to claim territory.

China says the structures are just for fish farming, but South Korea isn’t convinced. Recently, Oceans Minister Kang Do-hyung said South Korea set up its own floating platform in response, calling it a tool to keep an eye on things and study the environment. Tensions spiked earlier this year when Chinese coast guard ships and civilian boats blocked a South Korean research vessel, leading to a tense two-hour standoff, local news reported.

Lawmakers from South Korea’s ruling People Power Party are calling China’s actions a “serious threat” to the country’s maritime security and want a tougher response. The Yellow Sea is a key area for both nations, and South Korea is determined to protect its interests. During the talks, South Korea’s Foreign Minister stressed the need to address the issue, signaling they’re not backing down.

South Korea suspects China’s moves might echo its bold strategies in the South China Sea, where Beijing has made aggressive territorial claims. Wednesday’s meeting aimed to cool things down, but no clear agreement was reached. South Korea is stepping up its monitoring efforts to stay vigilant.

This dispute is part of bigger regional tensions, with South Korea caught in the middle of U.S.-China competition. Analysts warn that without real progress through talks, there’s a risk of more clashes at sea. South Korea’s Foreign Ministry says it’s committed to protecting the country’s rights while working to keep the peace through dialogue.

The situation remains tense, and both sides are holding firm. For now, South Korea is keeping a close watch, hoping to avoid further trouble in the Yellow Sea.