Abstract
Fisheries are subject to unexpected weather condition. While some change of it may be positive for some fisheries, the current state suggests that the effects will be undesirable for many fisheries. The aim of this study is to assess the vulnerability to climate change in 11 regional fisheries of Korea using the framework of IPCC. The vulnerability assessment depends upon the interrelation of three key elements; exposure, sensitivity and adaptive capacity, which were derived from Analytical Hierarchy Process method in this study. These elements would contribute to comprehend relative importance at the regional characteristics of fisheries. We compared the vulnerability index of 11 regional fisheries so as to look for strategies and adaptation methods to the impacts of potential climate change. Jeoun-Nam, Kyeong-Nam, and Jeju are identified as the most vulnerable provinces to climate change on their fisheries because they have high level of sensitivity to predicted climate change and relatively low adaptive capacity. The relatively low vulnerability of Ulsan, Gyeonggi reflects high financial independence, well-equipped infrastructure, social capital in these regions. Understanding of vulnerability to climate change suggests future research directions. This paper will provide a guide to local policy makers and fisheries managers about vulnerability and adaptation planning to climate change.