Jungmun (중문) and the ASEAN security force

Went to Jungmun (중문) on Sunday for a relaxing afternoon on the beach. As usual, there were quite a few people out on the beautiful afternoon, however the Korean security force brought out from the mainland was a surprise.

The ASEAN-ROK Commemorative Summit 2009 kicks off its conference next week. Held from June 1st to the 2nd, it is a huge international event that commemorates the 20th anniversary of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). Many heads of states are expected to show up to the International Convention Center (ICC) in Jungmun.


All over the island are flags of the ASEAN organization and its 10 countries, as well as giant posters with pictures and a large ensemble of flowers adorning them. Rumor has it that there is only one reporter and one photographer covering all the media for the event.

The impressive Korean warship, which I think might have been a frigate, was just offshore of the beach testing its water-guns(?). It was all really confusing.



Another strange sight was to see a sweet hovercraft pull up on the beach; it deflated for a few minutes then took off on a patrol, returning about a half hour later or so. (Warning: contains language that may be considered offensive)



Almost every ten minutes there were helicopters flying overhead. The amount of security was outstanding, and a little frightening. The conference hasn't even started, but the Republic of Korea wants to make sure of its safety and success.