필수해기인력 양성을 위한 국가필수해운제도 개선방안

With the recent escalation of geopolitical crises and the expansion of national protectionism, the strategic value of the shipping industry from an economic security perspective is being re-examined. Heavily reliant on foreign trade, South Korea learned a crucial lesson from the paralysis of its logistics network following the Hanjin Shipping bankruptcy. In response, it enacted the ｢Act on the Maintenance of Shipping and Port Functions in Preparation for Emergencies, etc.｣ in 2017 and introduced the National Essential Shipping System. However, as the system focuses primarily on the material foundation of securing vessels, discussions on the systematic management of maritime manpower—the human foundation essential for directly operating these vessels—and legislative supplements for the system's operation remain at a standstill. Accordingly, this study normatively re-examines the legislative intent of the Act and diagnoses the issues of the current system by dividing them into two main categories: the 'National Essential Fleet' and 'Maritime Manpower.' Furthermore, it conducts a comparative legal analysis of the essential shipping legislation in three major countries (the U.S., the U. K., and Japan) that lead global shipping hegemony and operate similar systems proactively. Through this analysis, the study derives the following legislative and policy alternatives for the future direction of South Korea's system. First, regarding the human aspect, an explicit legal basis for the mobilization of maritime manpower must be established alongside the enactment of an independent support law. Second, concerning the material aspect, measures must be devised to expand the designation of essential vessels, provide direct financial support for shipbuilding.