Second 3,600-Ton Submarine Named "Seo Hee"

Fifth New Frigate to Be Named "Pyeongtaek"

The Republic of Korea Navy announced on July 3 that it has named the second vessel of the Jang Youngsil-class submarine (KSS-III Batch-II, 3,600-ton class) as "Seohee." Additionally, the fifth vessel of the new frigate class (FFX Batch-III, 3,600-ton class) has been named "Pyeongtaek."

Jang Youngsil Ship (Jangbogo-III, Batch-II No.1 ship) undergoing the launching ceremony at Hanwha Ocean in Geoje, Gyeongnam. Photo by Yonhap News

The Navy selects submarine names from among individuals who have made significant contributions to military strength, maritime power, scientific and technological advancement, resistance against foreign powers, and the independence movement—figures who are deeply respected by the public. In contrast, frigates are named after metropolitan cities, provinces, provincial capitals, and small or medium-sized cities.

The Navy stated, "Ship names are determined by the Naval Headquarters Ship Naming Committee prior to the launching ceremony, taking into account historical facts, military relevance, public recognition, and continuity with previous ship names."

The namesake of the new submarine's second vessel, "Seohee (徐熙)," refers to a national hero from the Goryeo Dynasty who repelled the Khitan invasion and secured the six Gando districts south of the Amnok River. The Navy explained that the exceptional military and diplomatic achievements of Prime Minister Seohee, as well as his spirit of overcoming national crises, make his name especially suitable for a submarine, which is a core force in maritime defense.

The name of the new frigate's fifth vessel, "Pyeongtaek," is derived from Pyeongtaek City, the location of the Navy's Second Fleet Command, responsible for defending the West Sea. The Navy emphasized that the Pyeongtaek will be assigned to the Second Fleet and highlighted the security symbolism of the area as a key naval base dedicated to protecting the West Sea.

The Seohee is an advanced submarine currently being designed and built using domestic defense technology, with a length of 89 meters and a displacement of 3,600 tons. The Pyeongtaek is a new frigate with a length of 129 meters, a width of 14.8 meters, and a displacement of 3,600 tons.

The Seohee submarine, which is under construction, is scheduled to be delivered to the Navy in 2028, while the Pyeongtaek frigate is expected to be delivered in 2027.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.