The Sokcho-Vladivostok ferry service operated by GNLst transported 544 vehicles and 447 passengers in September, raising hopes for the revitalization of Sokcho Port, reported Seoul's Asia Business Daily.

According to Sokcho City, the GNLGraice ferry saw a sharp rise in vehicle transport, up from 75 in August to 544 in September. On 30 September alone, 255 vehicles were loaded.

Passenger numbers also surged, with 447 people using the route in September, including 103 Russian nationals. No passengers were recorded in August when the service began.

The GNLGraice is a 16,000-ton class ferry capable of carrying 570 passengers, 350 vehicles and 150 TEU of cargo. It currently runs weekly, with plans to increase frequency once operations stabilize.

The Sokcho Port ferry route, first launched in April 2000, has faced repeated suspensions due to financial issues. GNLst's early success is seen as a positive sign for the port's future.

A Sokcho City official said the port is already linked to East Sea Rim countries and aims to become a high value-added logistics hub for used cars and construction equipment exports.

The official added that the city will seek support through close cooperation with Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province to further develop the port's international role.