The population of Dokdo currently stands at zero.

The island has become uninhabited following the passing of Kim Seong-do and Kim Shin-yeol, known as the guardians of Dokdo.

Now, Dokdo is looking for new residents.

Ulleung County announced plans to recruit new residents after renovating the residential quarters on Seodo Island in Dokdo.

The Seodo residential quarters are the place where the late couple previously stayed.

Engaged in fishing on Dokdo, the couple protected the island and were regarded as symbols demonstrating South Korea's effective control over Dokdo.

However, the residence became vacant after Kim Seong-do passed away in October 2018 and Kim Shin-yeol passed away in March of this year.

Following the couple's passing, the validity of the residential use permit also expired.

Ulleung County sent an administrative vicarious execution warning notice to the bereaved family of the late couple, requesting that they clear out the personal belongings left in the residence.

However, Ulleung County is facing setbacks in executing the administrative procedure as one of the family members has repeatedly refused to accept the related administrative documents.

The family member reportedly refuses to collect the belongings because they want to inherit the right to live on Dokdo across generations, even though they do not engage in fishing.