Korea launches 3,600-ton submarine, boosting naval deterrence, defense export capacity

Korea's Navy and Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA) inaugurated the Seo Hui, the second 3,600-ton Dosan Ahn Changho-class Batch-II diesel-electric attack submarine, at Hanwha Ocean's Geoje Okpo Shipyard on Tuesday. The submarine pays homage to Seo Hui, a revered diplomat and statesman from the Goryeo Dynasty who deftly utilized strategic negotiation to thwart a massive invasion by the Khitan-led Liao Empire in 993, securing crucial territory along the northwestern border without a single loss of life.

In honoring regional security concerns surrounding the peninsula, Korean authorities named the submarine after Seo Hui to embody military foresight, crisis resolution in times of national emergency, and the defense of maritime sovereignty. The ceremony drew an attendance of approximately 200 officials, among them National Assembly Speaker Cho Jeong-sik.

Post-launching, in accordance with naval tradition, Cho Mi-seon, wife of the speaker, ceremoniously sliced the launching ribbon tied to the vessel, signifying the infusion of new life into the newly constructed warship. This was followed by a symbolic break of a champagne bottle against the hull. Measuring 89 meters in length, the Seo Hui stands as Korea's latest addition to its formidable naval fleet, bolstering its deterrence capabilities and expanding its export potential.