The Panamanian-flagged KOTI vessel, which was seized off the west coast of South Korea in late December, is operated by a company linked to several known Chinese weapons smugglers, an investigation by NK News can reveal.

South Korean officials are holding the 5100-tonne tanker in Pyeongtaek-Dangjin port after deciding against releasing the vessel on December 21 – the second such seizure in recent months.

Based out of the same Dalian room as two known Chinese nationals linked to instances of DPRK weapons proliferation, the vessel’s manager lists contact details for both men online.

The company’s owner also connects, through another business, to