The 3,000-ton vessel was reportedly en route to Russia from North Korea via China. Security sources allege the ship may have been involved in activities violating U.N. sanctions on North Korea.

The ship, carrying thirteen crew members including a Chinese captain and crewmembers from China and Indonesia, refused orders to stop. The South Korean Coast Guard subsequently moved the vessel and docked it in Busan.

Authorities are currently investigating the ship's activities and cargo. The crew's refusal to open the cargo hold is hindering efforts to confirm its contents.

U.N. Resolution 2397, passed in 2017, authorizes member states to seize, inspect, and detain any vessel suspected of violating sanctions against North Korea within their territorial waters. (ILKHA)