South Korean training ship docks at Pensacola for first time

The Republic of Korea Ship Hansando (ATH-81) docked at Naval Air Station Pensacola on Monday, marking the first port call by a South Korean navy vessel to the base.

The training ship arrived at Allegheny Pier carrying nearly 400 personnel. This group includes cadets, crew members, and support staff operating under the Republic of Korea Navy Cruise Training Task Group.

The port call is part of a four-month global deployment designed for tactical drills and real-world sea training. Pensacola serves as one of only three U.S. stops on this route, located alongside Hawaii and Baltimore.

Capt. Newman and Rear Admiral Kim addressed Sailors and Marines during the arrival ceremony. The event featured the American and South Korean national flags flying side by side, with local military leadership and members of the Pensacola-area Korean community present.

The visiting crew enjoyed a welcome meal of Southern barbecue and Coca-Cola, while local Korean community members boarded the Hansando for a brief visit.

The ship will remain in Pensacola through Thursday. The cadets plan to explore the area and pay tribute to local military history before the vessel departs for Baltimore. The Hansando will continue its voyage with international stops in Guatemala, Tahiti, Fiji, and Panama.