ISTANBUL

South Korea on Thursday expressed “deep concern” over the construction of steel structures by China in the Yellow Sea, warning that its maritime interests must not be infringed upon, the Foreign Ministry said.

The issue was raised during regular maritime talks held in Seoul on Wednesday between South Korea and China, amid heightened diplomatic tensions over Beijing’s growing maritime presence, Yonhap News reported.

The structures were built in the so-called Provisional Maritime Zone (PMZ) near Ieo Islet -- a submerged rock located off South Korea’s southwest coast, where the exclusive economic zones of both countries overlap.

The Yellow Sea holds significant strategic and economic importance, serving as a vital corridor for trade, fisheries, and military navigation.

South Korea emphasized that such developments “should not violate our legitimate maritime interests,” the ministry said in a statement.

China, however, defended the installations, insisting they are solely intended for aquaculture and have no bearing on territorial claims or maritime boundaries.

In Beijing, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun said Thursday the facility was “in compliance with domestic and international law,” and “unrelated to bilateral maritime delimitation.”

“The construction does not contravene the agreement between China and South Korea,” Guo told reporters, adding that Beijing was “willing to work with Seoul to enhance dialogue and communication and properly address relevant issues.”

Both countries agreed to continue consultations on the matter at all levels, with a mutual understanding that the issue should not hinder broader bilateral relations, according to Seoul’s Foreign Ministry.