Seoul sanctions Russian, Chinese entities linked to North Korean trade breach

The South Korean government has decided to impose sanctions on a ship, two companies, including a Russian one, and two individuals due to alleged violations of United Nations Security Council resolutions.

The sanctions target the flagless ship Sunrise 1, operated by a Hong Kong-based company, Xiang Rui Shipping. Sanctions have also been imposed on the company and the Russian company Consul DV, as well as two Chinese nationals who are part of the management of Xiangrui Shipping, Caliber.Az reports, citing foreign media.

According to Seoul, in June 2024, the South Korean government detained the ship in its territorial waters and inspected it, finding 5,020 tons of iron ore.

The South Korean authorities say the ship was en route from the port of Chongjin in North Korea. United Nations Security Council resolutions prohibit such trade with North Korea. The sender of the cargo was allegedly listed as a Russian company.

By Khagan Isayev