NIFS announced that thorough prior preparation is highly required to mitgate abalone stock losses during the vulnerable summer months when the water temperature in the western part of the South Sea this year is forecast to be higher than usual. 

According to the results of NIFS Seasonal Ocean Prediction System (SOPS) analysis, this year’s coastal surface water temperatures in the South Sea and West Sea is projected to be 1.0℃ higher than average year, the timing to issue high water temperature warnings is also projected to be sooner than usual in early-mid July. 

Added to that, a cold water mass in the western part of the South Sea is projected to develop with greater intensity than average year, leading to significant short-term fluctuation in water temperature; therefore, special care is required in the management of cultured abalone*. 

*Jeollanam-do accounts for 99% of the nation’s total abalone supply. In 2025, Jeonnam produced 27,257 tons, valued at 486 billion KRW.

To that end, NIFS will strengthen on-site guidance for abalone culture households including △cage net cleaning for tidal circulation, △shelter cleaning to mitigate stress, △sun shading installment, △feeding system control against high water temperature and drastic changes in water temperature, etc. 

“There has been growing risk of fisheries disaster driven by climate change. Therefore, prior preparation is of primary importance. By providing swiftly the data on abnormal ocean conditions in the southern coast to the fields, strengthening customized technical support, etc., NIFS will do all we can to minimize the damages to fishermen,” said Kwon Soon-wook, president of NIFS.