Navy holds ceremony marking 80th founding anniversary

SEOUL, Nov. 11 (Yonhap) -- The Navy held a ceremony in central Seoul on Tuesday to mark the 80th anniversary of its founding.

The ceremony, held in front of the statue of the Joseon-era Adm. Yi Sun-shin, known for defeating multiple Japanese invasions in naval warfare, brought together founding elders, bereaved family members of fallen service members and former naval chiefs, hosted by Navy chief Adm. Kang Dong-gil.

In his opening speech, Kang said the Navy has firmly protected the country's maritime sovereignty for the past 80 years, noting it was the first among the three military branches to be established on Nov. 11, 1945.

"We will build a naval force driven by artificial intelligence and cutting-edge technology to lead future warfare and secure victory, creating a sea for the Republic of Korea that no one can dare to challenge," Kang said.

The ceremony also featured a presentation of commendations to exemplary personnel, the delivery of President Lee Jae Myung's congratulatory message and a poetry recital dedicated to the Navy's 80th anniversary.

sookim@yna.co.kr
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