Wando County Launches New Passenger Ship "Seomsarang 2" for Official Operation

"Seomsarang 2" Begins Three Daily Round Trips
on the 21-Kilometer Route Between Wando Port and Modo

Wando County in South Jeolla Province announced on July 4 that it held a launching ceremony for the new passenger ship "Seomsarang 2" at Moseo Port in Cheongsan-myeon on July 1 and officially began its operation.

More than 100 people attended the event, including officials from the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries, Mokpo Regional Office of Oceans and Fisheries, and local residents. "Seomsarang 2" is a 185-ton car ferry with a passenger capacity of 80 people and can carry up to 15 mid-sized passenger vehicles. Its operating speed is 14 knots.

Wando County held a launching ceremony for the new passenger ship "Seomsarang 2" and officially began its operation. Photo by Wando County

The new vessel has reduced travel time by about 15 minutes compared to the previous ferry, and its transport capacity has been significantly improved, which is expected to enhance mobility for island residents. The route covers a 21-kilometer section between Wando Port and Modo, operating three round trips per day. Departure times from Wando are 7:10 a.m., 11:00 a.m., and 3:30 p.m.

The previous Seomsarang 2 had raised safety concerns due to its expired service life, and its limited transport capacity had caused significant inconvenience to residents. In response, since 2023, the county has been working with the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries and the Mokpo Regional Office of Oceans and Fisheries to secure budget and discuss operational plans, leading to the introduction of the new vessel.

A county official stated, "With the launch of the new passenger ship, we are able to enhance both the safety and convenience of passengers," adding, "We will continue to do our best to expand the maritime transportation infrastructure to guarantee the mobility rights of island residents and improve their living conditions."

An official from the Mokpo Regional Office of Oceans and Fisheries said, "With the launch of Seomsarang 2, not only will maritime transportation become more convenient, but the transport of agricultural and marine products from island areas will also become smoother, which will benefit the local economy."

"Seomsarang 2" operates on a state-subsidized route, and passenger transport is managed by Haekwang Transportation, a private operator contracted for the service.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.