KHOA is a subordinate agency of the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries that has been publishing nautical charts by conducting hydrographic surveys and ocean observations over the past 70 years to support the safe use of ocean resources for the public.

Since its establishment as a Hydrographic Division under the Operations Department of the ROK Navy in 1949 , KHOA has been faithfully conducting its mission to protect the sovereignty of our seas , and our earlier tasks date back to 1951 when we made our first nautical charts and 1954 when we conducted the first hydrographic surveys near Dokdo.

Currently, KHOA operates 139 points of the Korea Ocean Observation Network, including the offshore Ieodo Ocean Research Station to collect data such as tides, surface currents and water temperature. The collected data is then reprocessed to provide marine information to the public for various marine leisure activities such as sea fishing, tidal flat experience, and scuba diving.

Furthermore, KHOA joined the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO) in 1957 to strengthen national maritime competitiveness, making efforts to spread the use of“the East Sea” and “Dokdo.” KHOA also plays a leading role for registration of marine geographical names in Korean and navigation services at sea.

With the recent establishment of the National Ocean Satellite Center in 2019, KHOA is expanding its marine research technology into the space and further reinforcing technical capabilities by conducting wide-area ocean observations.

As the only marine research agency in South Korea, KHOA will endeavour to accomplish its goals of“realization of a maritime power”and “promotion of national happiness.” KHOA will continue to take a step forward with pride and determination to enhance the national status in the maritime field through the development of marine research.

Thank you.