Published：May 29, 17:11Last updated：Jun 8, 05:49

Joint Maritime Drills Strengthen Regional Cooperation

May. 29, 2026 17:11

China and South Korea conducted a joint maritime rescue drill on May 28 in the Yellow Sea, simulating a fishing boat fire. Both nations deployed ships and helicopters, improving coordination in emergencies. The exercise followed a 2007 search-and-rescue agreement between the two countries.

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Jun. 7, 2026 10:04

South Korea and Japan conducted a joint maritime search and rescue exercise (SAREX) on June 7, 2026, for the first time in nine years. The drill took place in international waters southeast of Jeju Island and involved naval ships from both countries. The exercise aimed to improve coordinated responses to maritime incidents. The drills had been suspended since 2017 due to bilateral tensions but resumed following defense ministers' talks earlier in the year.

Jun. 8, 2026 05:49

The Japanese and South Korean navies conducted their first joint drills in nine years, signaling renewed defense cooperation. Published on June 8, 2026, the article highlights the significance of the exercises.

South Korea has been actively engaging in joint maritime drills with neighboring countries, signaling improved regional cooperation and enhanced military preparedness. These exercises, ranging from search-and-rescue operations to anti-submarine warfare, aim to strengthen coordination and response capabilities in emergency situations.

🌊 China-South Korea Rescue Drill

On May 28, 2026, China and South Korea conducted a joint maritime rescue drill in the Yellow Sea, simulating a fishing boat fire. Both nations deployed ships and helicopters, improving their coordination in emergencies. This exercise followed a 2007 search-and-rescue agreement between the two countries, highlighting ongoing collaboration in maritime safety.Huanqiu

🇰🇷🇯🇵 SAREX Resumes After Nine Years

South Korea and Japan announced the resumption of their joint maritime search and rescue exercises (SAREX) starting June 7, 2026. The drills, conducted in international waters southeast of Jeju Island, symbolize improving bilateral relations. The SAREX exercises, launched in 1999, were suspended in 2017 due to a dispute over a Japanese patrol aircraft's low-altitude flyby over a South Korean warship.Yonhap News Agency+2

🚨 Joint Drills Amid North Korean Tensions

South Korea announced plans for a joint rescue drill with Japan following North Korea's launch of approximately 10 ballistic missiles. The drill comes as part of ongoing military preparedness in the region. The missile launches were reported by South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff, occurring shortly after North Korean leader Kim Jong Un oversaw cruise missile tests from a new warship.Bloomberg

🇨🇦 South Korea-Canada Naval Exercise

On June 6, 2026, the navies of South Korea and Canada conducted a joint drill off the Canadian west coast. The exercise involved submarines, frigates, and helicopters from both nations, focusing on anti-ship shooting and anti-submarine warfare. This drill enhanced the operational capabilities of both navies, showcasing their commitment to maritime security.Yonhap News Agency

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