Ansan1 Ship Details and Seafarer Feedback

Multiple North Korean oil tankers, identified as the 'Song Won 2' (IMO: 8312497), 'An San 1', 'Kum Jin Gang 3' (IMO: 8791667), and 'Sin Phyong 9' (IMO: 8916293), have reportedly been transmitting AIS signals in Chinese waters as recently as July 2025. This brazen act contravenes U.N. resolutions that compel China to detain and inspect these vessels, which are under international sanctions. The situation is further compounded by the apparent inaction of both China and Russia towards these illicit activities involving the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK). Notably, the three tankers have also been sighted frequently at an oil pier in Vostochny Port, Russia, which serves as a key fuel destination for their operations. It is presumed these vessels were en route for fuel transfers. In addition to these sanctioned ships, the 'Chong Ryong San', which is not subjected to U.N. sanctions, has been implicated in earlier reports from the now-dissolved U.N. Panel of Experts. The tanker was noted for its illegal transportation of petroleum products to North Korea's primary port of Nampho, including engaging in unauthorized ship-to-ship transfers. It is important to highlight that 'Chong Ryong San' operates without registration in the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and thus does not possess an IMO number.