New Seomsarang 7 starts the Yeoseo–Wando ferry on 20 October

The Mokpo Regional Office of Oceans and Fisheries distributed a release on 14 October 2026 saying a new government-funded ferry, Seomsarang 7, will replace the 20-year-old ship of the same name on the Yeoseo–Wando route. The office held an entry-into-service ceremony on 15 October at the passenger terminal in Wando Port. Sailings start on 20 October.

The new ship was built at a yard in Mokpo and launched on 11 September 2026. It is a steel car ferry of 176 tons, against 151 tons for the ship it replaces. The construction cost is 52억 won. It has a passenger capacity of 80, and a maximum of 84 people on board including four crew. Service speed is 13.5 knots. It can carry 11 medium cars, or two trucks of 5 tons. Propulsion is two engines of 746 kW (1,014 PS). The office said sound-absorbing interior finishes and a stern splash board were fitted to cut vibration and noise.

Haegwang Unsu will operate the ship under contract. It runs one round trip a day from Yeoseodo via Cheongsando and Jangdo to Wando Port, a one-way distance of 50 km.

An official of the office said the extra capacity should make travel easier for residents of Yeoseodo and Jangdo and should keep daily goods and farm and fisheries products moving, and that the office will keep working on passenger safety.