Kim Hyun-bin began his journalism career at Arirang TV from 2012 to 2017, specializing in defense, foreign affairs and the economy. In 2018, he joined The Korea Times, covering society and business, and is currently responsible for embassy affairs.
Korea Coast Guard appoints 3rd woman senior superintendent in 72 years
After 72 years since its founding, the Korea Coast Guard (KCG) has appointed its third woman senior superintendent.
The KCG announced that Superintendent Song Young-joo, 48, was selected for promotion to senior superintendent in 2025.
Newly appointed Superintendent Song Young-joo / Courtesy of Korea Coast Guard
By Kim Hyun-bin
Song, a graduate of Korea Maritime and Ocean University, joined the KCG in 2003. Over the years, she has held numerous significant positions, including head of the water leisure division at the Incheon Coast Guard, deputy commander of Vessel 3010 at the Gunsan Coast Guard, head of the information and communications division at the Pyeongtaek Coast Guard, head of the maritime safety division at Pyeongtaek and head of personnel planning at KCG headquarters. Her career has encompassed a wide range of areas, including personnel management, maritime safety, water leisure, investigations and vessel operations.
The KCG highlighted Song’s contributions as head of personnel planning last year, where she played a key role in introducing an accelerated officer candidate program. The initiative focuses on performance- and competency-based promotions rather than seniority, aiming to establish a job performance-oriented personnel culture within the agency.
“With a warm and inclusive leadership approach, like an older sister, I will embrace diverse employees, ensuring they take pride in their work and remain dedicated to the safety of our maritime family,” Song said.
The KCG said it expects Song’s appointment to provide women officers with greater career opportunities while promoting diversity and inclusion in the organization.
Out of the 12,236 Coast Guard officers, excluding general civil servants, 10,846 are men, while only 1,390 are women, making up 11.4 percent of the total force, according to the KCG. This means there are approximately 11 women officers for every 100 Coast Guard personnel.
“We will continue expanding opportunities for outstanding women officers to advance into higher positions and fully demonstrate their capabilities,” KCG Commissioner General Kim Yong-jin said.