Chief of Army, Lieutenant General David Morrison, warmly welcomed Republic of Korea Chief of Staff General Sang-Ki Kim during his visit to Australia this week.
This was the first time the Australian Army had formally received a Republic of Korea Army Chief of Staff marking a significant development in bilateral defence relations between the two nations.
“This has been an important event for the Australian Army in the year of the 60th anniversary of the Battle of Kapyong. We value our relationship and embrace this opportunity to deepen cooperation with the Republic of Korea,” said LTGEN Morrison.
“Army seeks to enhance the bilateral relationship with the Republic of Korea, which is founded on history and based on common strategic interests,” he said.
A number of key events were held to mark General Sang-Ki Kim’s visit, including tours of Army Barracks, a wreath laying at 3RAR at Holsworthy, an Honour Guard and greeting by the Chief of Army in Canberra and a wreath laying ceremony at the Australian War Memorial.
This visit comes at a significant time for Australia-Korea relations as it marks the 60th anniversary of the landmark Australian battles in Korea, at Kapyong in April and Maryang San in October 1951. The Governments of Australia and the Republic of Korea have also designated 2011 as a ‘Year of Friendship’ marking the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations.
“The soldiers of the Third Battalion are intrinsically linked to the Battle of Kapyong and are proud to continue on the long enduring Anzac legacy that was displayed during Kapyong and later at Maryang San,” LTGEN Morrison said.
General Sang-Ki Kim’s visit follows an invitation extended by former Chief of Army Lieutenant General Ken Gillespie during a visit to the Republic of Korea in April for the commemoration of the Battle of Kapyong.