Battle of Kula Gulf
In January 1943, "Hatsuyuki" escorted a troop convoy from Pusan to Palau and on to Wewak. She continued to patrol and escort in the Solomon Islands until the end of February, when she was reassigned to the IJN 8th Fleet. In March, "Hatsuyuki" assisted the survivors of the Battle of Bismarck Sea, before returning to Kure for refit. In May, she escorted aircraft carrier from Yokosuka to Manila, Surabaya, Singapore, and back to Mako Guard District to Sasebo Naval District. In June, "Hatsuyuki" returned to Rabaul, and resumed "Tokyo Express" missions. In the Battle of Kula Gulf off of Kolombangara on 5 July, "Hatsuyuki" engaged a group of American cruisers and destroyers, and was hit by six dud shells, which damaged her steering and killed six crewmen.