Article Posted on : - Nov 10, 2014

CHENNAI (PTI): Two warships of the Republic of Korea Navy would call at Chennai port this month, as part of an initiative by the consulate of that country here to strengthen ties with the Korean community living in the city.

ROKN Chi Young and ROKN Cheonji would be visiting the city between November 15 and 18 for the first time on a friendly visit to promote mutual understanding between Korea and India, a release from the Korean consulate said on Saturday.

Rear Admiral Chun Jungsoo of Korean Navy Cruise Training Task Group is leading the cruise. Both the ships set sail from Korea on September 18 and have visited Australia, New Zealand and Sri Lanka on their way.

"From Chennai they will continue their journey heading east until they reach their home base in Korea around Christmas time," it said.

While in Chennai, the Korean naval officials would call on Tamil Nadu Governor K Rosaiah on November 15, conduct a clean up programme at the famous Marina Beach the next day, it said.

Cultural performance, Korean Food Festival, a concert by Navy Brass Band followed by Honour Guard, Tae Kwon Do (Korean martial art) and Samulnori (traditional percussion music) performance are also on the cards, it said.

While Indian Navy would be hosting a reception for the Korean Navy on November 16, visiting senior officials would place a wreath at the War Memorial the next day.

There are over 4,000 Koreans living in the state capital of Chennai where Korean automobile major Hyundai has a plant.