The principle purpose of the Coast Guard is the protection of the country, tasked by the government to effectively manage the waters surrounding the nation. On January 28, 2000, three major departments, in addition to smaller departments – the Coast Guard Command, Department of Defense; the National Police Agency Water Police Department; and the General Administration of Customs and Anti-Smuggling – were amalgamated to form one body. This new body formed the Ministerial-level Coast Guard Administration, dedicated to law enforcement on the coast and at sea, establishing a unified mechanism for enforcement. The Coast Guard is first committed to safeguarding national maritime rights and interests, including protecting the lives and property of citizens. The Coast Guard operates on the principles of enforcement in a lawful manner, remaining fair, appropriate, and thorough in all dealings. Vigorously working toward improvement of the nation’s shores, the administration has begun a new era of national coastal and Coast Guard advancement.

1.Management and security of the coastal regulation zone.
2.Safety inspection of water-bound vessels into and out of ports.
3.Investigation of smuggling operations, illegal exit or entry into the country, monitoring the safety of workers in maritime industries, and investigating other illegal activities on the coast, seas and rivers.
4.Assistance with marine and coastal activities, investigations and other matters.
5.Intelligence gathering of smuggling operations, and investigation and resolving of illegal import/export and safety issues.
6.Research and development in marine-related fields.
7.Executive functions: a.Management and order of maritime traffic control issues. b.Water rescue, marine disaster rescue and handling of maritime disputes. c.Fishing industry protection and protection of fishing resources. d.Protection and conservation of the maritime ecosystem.
8.Other matters relating to the Coast Guard.