The event commemorating the development of Korea's defense industry, titled '1st Defense Industry Day,' took place on the 8th. The purpose of the event is to inspire the pride and self-esteem of those working in the defense industry and to strive to become one of the world's four major defense powers.
The Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA) held the 1st Defense Industry Day ceremony that day at the Grand Hyatt Seoul. The Defense Industry Day was established as a national commemorative day in 2023. In Admiral Yi Sun-sin's battle diary, July 8, 1592, is recorded as the day when the turtle ship first participated in the Battle of Sacheon and roamed the seas. DAPA stated, "Considering the historical significance of the turtle ship, which symbolizes Korea's will to protect its territory and its independent technological prowess."
This ceremony was held under the theme of 'Remembering the dedication and passion of Korea's defense industry.' DAPA explained that it embodies the government's commitment to enhance pride among workers in the defense industry and to cultivate the defense industry as a future strategic industry. The event was attended by over 200 people, including Minister of National Defense nominee Ahn Gyu-baek, Chairperson of the National Defense Committee Seong Il-jong, and Vice Minister of National Defense Lee Doo-hee.
Government awards were presented to those who dedicated themselves to the development of the defense industry. Kim Jong-il, CEO of Samyang Comtech, and Jang Dong-gwon, Deputy Minister of LIG Nex1, received the Order of Industrial Service Merit (Gold Tower) for their contributions to expanding exports of bulletproof ceramics and cooperative development of Cheongung II to enhance the export base in the Middle East.
Navy Colonel Ahn Jin-hyeon, who contributed to securing the performance of the K-Submarine Jangbogo-III, received the Order of Service Merit, while Senior Researcher Jeong Young-cheol from the Korea Research Institute for Defense Technology Planning and Advancement (KRIT), who worked on the structural transition of export-oriented defense industry and the creation of a defense ecosystem, received a commendation. Park Sang-won, an executive at Hanwha Aerospace, was honored with a presidential citation for his contribution to the successful contract for the export of K9 self-propelled howitzers to Romania.
DAPA Administrator Seok Jong-geon said, "On the occasion of the 1st Defense Industry Day ceremony, I would like to express my deep gratitude to all defense industry workers who have dedicated themselves with commitment and passion for the growth of K-defense," adding, "The government will do its best to ensure that K-defense, which is expanding its horizons in the global market, continues to grow as a strategic industry representing the nation."