This paper proposes that the Marine Search & Rescue and Salvage Association of Korea (MARSA) can provide KCG a very positive return on investment; that is, MARSA will save lives and property well over the budget needed from KCG to operate MARSA. To perform this Cost-Benefit Analysis, actual performance data and other figures are taken from the USCG Auxiliary, and these figures are used to project expected possible MARSA results. In this paper, MARSA is projected to provide a 1,493 % return on investment.

Korea has a systemic problem with lack of engine maintenance, especially among the Commercial Fishing Vessel fleet. This results in a inordinate percent of SAR call-outs for vessels with engine failure. These SAR call-outs lead to a free tow to shore by KCG or by one of its volunteer associates. Although these tows are not a terrible economic burden on KCG, it is a burden in terms of time and resources mis-allocated. This paper proposes a Commercial Fishing Vessel Examination (CFVE) program modeled after the program run by USCG. It is expected that adopting the CFVE program, KCG may be able to create a culture of safety among fishermen; thus, replicating the USCG’s success rates.