The first international commercial vessel in 57 years has arrived at Jeju Port, expected to significantly enhance the export-import competitiveness of Jeju businesses by reducing logistics costs and transportation time.

Jeju Province held the “First Berth Ceremony of the Jeju-Qingdao Regular Container Ship” at Jeju Port International Passenger Terminal on the 18th.

The inaugural vessel, the *SMC Ruzhao*, carried approximately 40 TEU (1 TEU equals one 20-foot container) of imported goods, including pet chips and machinery. From Jeju, 10 TEU of products, such as processed seafood and Samdasu mineral water, will be exported to China. The *SMC Ruzhao*, measuring 118 meters in length and 20.8 meters in width, has a capacity of 712 TEU and is equipped with 109 refrigerated outlets, making it suitable for transporting fresh and refrigerated goods.

This route opening marks the first regular international shipping lane since Jeju Port was designated as a trade port in 1968, 57 years ago. The Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries approved the route in late July of this year, finalized the operating carrier in August, and completed the voyage plan reporting process in early October, leading to full-scale operations. The new route departs from Qingdao every Monday, arrives in Jeju on Wednesday, and returns to Qingdao on Saturday.

Jeju Province anticipates significant cost reductions from this route. Logistics costs per TEU, which previously amounted to 2,040,000 Korean won when transiting through Busan Port, will drop to 770,000 Korean won—a 62% reduction (1,270,000 Korean won saved)—with direct shipping. Transportation time will also be shortened by at least two days.

Additionally, construction materials from China can now be imported directly without passing through existing ports like Incheon, and Jeju’s mineral water and cosmetics can be exported directly. Job creation is also expected in areas such as cargo handling equipment operation, bonded area management, and vessel entry-exit support.

Jeju Governor Oh Young-hun stated, “Jeju is an island that has embraced the spirit of a maritime kingdom, communicating with the world through the sea since the Tamna era over a thousand years ago. The opening of the Jeju-Qingdao route is a historic moment that revives Tamna’s DNA, once again making the sea a path forward.” He added, “With this route, logistics costs for Jeju businesses will be reduced by over 60%, and access to the Chinese and Southeast Asian markets will expand. Linked to the development of Jeju New Port, we will foster Jeju Port as a core hub for Northeast Asian maritime logistics and actively support local businesses in expanding globally.”
Source: The Chosun Daily