The first direct container shipping route between Qingdao, China, and Jeju, South Korea, was launched on Oct 16 from Qingdao Cruise Home Port. This landmark service establishes the first regular international container link to Jeju and advances Shandong province's strategy to expand high-level international trade.

As a key gateway for Chinese people to experience South Korean culture and nature, Jeju has maintained a sister-province relationship with Shandong since 2008. Shandong Port Group, strategically positioned near South Korea, is a vital hub under the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership framework and the most efficient maritime gateway for the Yellow River basin region.

The new route will operate weekly, cutting the original transit time of five to 14 days (via Busan or Incheon) down to just two days. This "marine shuttle" enables next-day delivery of fresh produce and other time-sensitive goods, significantly boosting supply chain responsiveness. A dedicated China-South Korea express green channel has been set up to streamline customs, aiming to clear goods within 24 hours.

Operated by Shandong Ocean Shipping Group with the vessel SMC RIZHAO, the service is equipped to handle refrigerated and high-value cargo, which will support cross-border e-commerce and cold chain logistics. The route strengthens regional connectivity, upgrades logistics from weekly to daily class, and provides new support for trade and industrial cooperation between China and South Korea.

The first direct container shipping route between Qingdao, China and Jeju, South Korea is launched on Oct 16 from Qingdao Cruise Home Port. [Photo/WeChat account: qbguanxiangshan]