2024 World Marine Aids to Navigation Day in the Republic of Korea
The 6th World Marine Aids to Navigation Day was celebrated on July 3rd at the SEAMARQ Hotel in Gangneung, Republic of Korea. The ceremony, themed “Spread the value of lighthouse culture to connect time and space,” was attended by notable figures such as the Vice Minister of Oceans and Fisheries, the Vice Governor of Gangwon Province, the Deputy Mayor of Gangneung, heads of related organizations, industry leaders, guests from China and France and the public. IALA’s Secretary General contributed a congratulatory video message highlighting Korea’s exceptional support for IALA activities.
The ceremony featured presentations on the current status and trends in Aids to Navigation (AtoN) technology, as well as policies for preserving and utilizing lighthouses. Awards were given to individuals who contributed significantly to the development and proper maintenance of AtoNs and the promotion of lighthouse maritime culture.
A special performance underscored the event’s theme, where VIPs placed letters in a glass sculpture, symbolizing the transmission of safer maritime culture to future generations. This was visually represented by a video showing a child receiving the letter, followed by a live performance by a children’s choir.
Additionally, Korea had designated the first week of July as ‘Korea Lighthouse Week’, which includes World Marine Aids to Navigation Day (July 1) from 2024. During this week various events, such as Lighthouse Camp, Painting Lighthouse, a Trekking Festival around a lighthouse trail, and a Lighthouse picture exhibition held at the National Lighthouse Museum and other marine cultural spaces to engage the public and foster interest in lighthouse culture.
