HERE in Saipan, the Pacific Ocean is more than just a beautiful view — it’s part of our daily lives. Recently, a major announcement from South Korea has brought global attention to our part of the world. On January 15, 2026, the Korea Institute of Geoscience and Mineral Resources shared news of a major scientific find that connects directly to our region.
Using their research ship, Tamhae-3, South Korean scientists discovered large amounts of rare earth elements deep under the ocean floor in the Western Pacific. These elements are important for making electronics, batteries, and other modern technologies. The discovery was made about 5.8 kilometers below the surface, in international waters east of Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands.
For those of us in the CNMI, the location is very specific. The site is between 15° to 20° north latitude and 145° to 150° east longitude — clearly outside the U.S. Exclusive Economic Zone, which means it’s in international waters.
What’s impressive is how carefully the research was done. The team used a method called “piston coring” to collect samples from the seafloor without damaging it. They also used long-range imaging tools to study the area. The samples they collected are considered safer for future use because they contain very low levels of radioactive materials.
This wasn’t a lucky accident. The scientists studied a lot of seafloor data ahead of time and picked three likely spots. They were able to collect high-quality samples from all three. The results showed:
– A maximum concentration of 3,100 parts per million or ppm
– An average concentration of over 2,000 ppm
This project is fully run by the South Korean government, with no private companies involved. It’s part of a national effort to secure important natural resources. Since the discovery is in an area managed by the International Seabed Authority, South Korea is preparing to apply for rights to develop the site. This could help reduce global dependence on rare earth supplies from other countries, especially China.
Looking at a map and seeing this discovery so close to our islands is a strong reminder of how important our region is to the future of global technology and resources. As South Korea moves forward with its application under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, the people of Saipan are in a unique position to witness how this new chapter in ocean exploration unfolds.
You can find my work here: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/17ONlniSB-rEmD7vNjHADNbfxQfggRIng
Thank you.
NOEL M. SORIA
Gualo Rai, Saipan
