The transnational nature of seafood supply chains, including different jurisdictions with varying degrees of responsibility and opportunity, creates a high risk for labour abuse. The ratification of the International Labour Organization’s Work in Fishing Convention, C188, has been low, making the enforcement of national labour regulations very important. This article summarises national labour regulations of key flag States that fish in the Western and Central Pacific Ocean and compare these regulations to C188. The findings highlight the gaps between national regulations and international labour standards. Although the primary responsibility for crew labour standards lies with the flag State, tools at the coastal, crew, port and market State levels are introduced that could support better protection of fishing crew. While the legal infrastructure to address labour issues on fishing vessels exists in theory, more work is needed to increase the performance, enforcement, monitoring and accountability of the existing regulations.

Korean aquaculture has expanded considerably in recent decades; however, this growth has often prioritized quantity over fish welfare. Therefore, we analyzed the aquaculture practices of olive flounder, the predominant species in Korean consumption and production, within the framework of fish welfare. We conducted extensive interviews and surveys across olive flounder farms in Jeju-do and Wando to examine prevalent issues impacting fish welfare in aquaculture. These issues include stressors, mass mortality events, and disease outbreaks, all of which strain the welfare of farmed fish. Moreover, our survey revealed farmers’ varying perceptions of fish welfare, highlighting the necessity for a cohesive approach. Accordingly, we propose recommendations to enhance fish welfare and establish a more sustainable aquaculture model in Korea. Ensuring fish welfare in aquaculture operations requires a comprehensive approach that considers the physiological and behavioral needs of fish throughout the farming lifecycle. By prioritizing fish welfare, Korean aquaculture can strengthen its growth while maintaining ethical standards and ensuring the well-being of farmed fish. This welfare-centric approach is crucial for the long-term sustainability and resilience of the Korean aquaculture industry. By addressing welfare concerns and promoting responsible practices, Korean aquaculture can foster an ethically sound and sustainable future.

The Korean tuna fishing fleet has a long history of participation in the tuna fisheries of the Western and Central Pacific Ocean (wcpo), the largest tuna fisheries in the world. As one of the largest distant water fishing fleets operating in the wcpo, Korea has a strong interest in maintaining access to both eez s and the high seas, and ensuring sustainability of the region’s tuna stocks. The regulatory environment for tuna fisheries in the wcpo is complex and multi-layered, with regional, sub-regional and national legislation, regulation and policies all affecting tuna fishing vessels and operations. Management of tuna fisheries within Pacific Island eez s is increasingly being tightened, including through the introduction of zone-based management approaches, and Pacific Island countries are also advocating for improved management of tuna fishing in the high seas. While all four primary tuna species in the wcpo are currently considered healthy, catch rates and economic conditions in the southern and tropical longline fisheries are in decline and catch reductions will be necessary to improve catch rates and increase economic returns for longline vessels. Within this context, the Korean distant water fishing fleet will need to strengthen engagement and cooperation with Pacific island States in order to maintain their competitiveness.

Digital technologies can improve efficiency and sustainability in fisheries and aquaculture, yet adoption in Korea remains limited. This study analyzes structural and perceptual factors affecting digital uptake among 201 respondents (100 capture fishers, 101 aquaculture farmers). Results show that high initial costs, limited information access, and regional infrastructure gaps are the main barriers. Perceived urgency and expected benefits promote positive attitudes but do not consistently lead to actual device use, revealing a perception–behavior gap. Traditional work routines and the limited impact of government programs further constrain adoption. This study provides one of the first integrated assessments of structural, perceptual, and demographic influences across both fisheries and aquaculture in Korea. The findings highlight the need for combined strategies—improving infrastructure, reducing financial burdens, and delivering practical, localized training—to support a more effective digital transition in the sector.