South Korea expresses its concern over China's ban on navigation in the Yellow Sea.

South Korea expressed its "concern" on Saturday, May 24, about China's announcement of a temporary ban on maritime navigation in a part of the Yellow Sea, through diplomatic channels between the two countries.

This response came after Beijing announced the prohibition of foreign ships from entering the area until May 27, as reported by the French Press Agency.

The American magazine "Newsweek" reported last Wednesday that the ban includes an area where the exclusive economic zones of both China and South Korea overlap.

The announcement of the ban was linked to a plan for a "military exercise," according to South Korean media quoting Seoul's Ocean Agency.

South Korea's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in a statement today, confirmed that "China's establishment of a restricted navigation area raises concerns," indicating that its government will verify the compliance of this measure with international maritime law.

On the other hand, Korean media outlets believe that the ban may be an attempt by Beijing to enhance its influence in the Yellow Sea. "Newsweek" also noted that China has built 3 facilities in the restricted area, believed to be designated for "fish farming."