South Korea and China agreed to extend the age limit for replacement ferries from 10 to 15 years to stabilize operations on ferry routes. This decision was made on Friday during the 27th Korea-China shipping talks in Qingdao — the first time the talks have been held in five years. The two sides stated that this measure was a response to ferry operators facing difficulties in securing suitable replacement vessels when they reach their operating age limit (30 years).

The two countries also addressed the ongoing challenges in resuming ferry passenger services, which have been suspended since the COVID-19 pandemic. Both sides committed to opening existing shipping routes. They agreed to continue efforts to normalize suspended ferry routes, including the Pyeongtaek-Yantai line.