SAN PEDRO, Calif. – The Port of Los Angeles today welcomed three naval vessels from the Republic of South Korea as part of a three-and-a-half month Navy cruise deployment and goodwill tour. During the three-day port visit, the vessels will be anchored at Berth 46. The public is welcome to view these impressive vessels from the waterfront.
“I would like to welcome the South Korean ships to San Pedro, home of the Korean Friendship Bell – a gift to the people of Los Angeles from the Republic of Korea in 1976,” said Councilwoman Janice Hahn. “This goodwill tour will only strengthen the relationship between South Korea and Los Angeles, serving as yet another symbol of the friendship that already exists between us.”
Under Commander Oh Sung-gyue, the Korean Naval Training Force began its journey on September 24 in Russia. The three Korean naval ships, the Wonsan, Hwacheon and Yangmanchun, made their first stop in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, in early October. After a goodwill exchange with U.S. Navy personnel stationed there, the Korean ships sailed to Canada then southward to the Port of Los Angeles on November 4.
As part of the welcoming festivities, Commander Oh will host a reception aboard the Yangmanchun with an expected attendance of 200 guests from the local Korean community. Hours for viewing are Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 11:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Public parking is available on the corner of 22nd Street and Miner Street in San Pedro.
From San Pedro, the naval vessels will continue their journey to Acapulco and then Tahiti, where they will end their training deployment in December.
The Port of Los Angeles is America’s premier port. As the leading containerport in the nation and a critical hub in the international supply chain, the Port generates thousands of stable, well paying jobs. It has also placed a high priority on smart growth initiatives combined with high security, environmental stewardship and community outreach. The Port of Los Angeles is a proprietary, self-supporting department of the City of Los Angeles. The Port of Los Angeles… Anchoring a bright future.
