Ministry of National Defense Republic of Korea

“Happy to see Korea for myself, the country that strived for our peace”

They were utter strangers, yet there was no need to talk. A bond of sympathy in that they were together to bring peace and establish a country at that time developed between them.

During the 18th ASEAN Regional Forum Head of Defense Universities, College and Institutions Meeting (ARF HDUCIM), there was a special meeting at reception area of the Westin Chosun on September 22. Professor Park Sun-hyang, PKO center, National Defence University(NDU), who worked for the United Nations Transitional Administration in East Timor(UNTAET) 10 years ago shook four delegates of East Timor warmly by the hand. However, this special meeting came close not to be held because the delegation firstly notified of their absence for the meeting, but later they decided to participatethe meeting, so their special meeting was finally held.

Professor Park served as a welfare officer at the UNTAET for two years, beginning in 2000. She was the first Korean female soldier sent overseas and supported PKF soldiers‘ mission completion and welfare activities for the local people. She is especially affectionate toward the activities since she devoted herself to supporting a member of the central election management committee, Son Bong-suk, who worked for the UN‘s election board during the independence referendum in 1999 and constitutional assembly election in 2001.

“It‘s been 10 years since I left East Timor and I‘ve felt obliged to visit there sometime. I can‘t believe I can meet these representatives of East Timor here in Korea,” she said with a smile on her face, which was mirrored by the bright smiles on the representatives‘ faces as well.

An East Timor institute for defense analysis senior researcher, Samuel Soares, said, “I also worked for UNTAET 10 years ago. I didn’t know Professor Park at that time but I’m quite surprised that we worked together. I’m really happy to have a chance to visit Korea, the country that strived for our peace.”

The delegates also conveyed their longing for members of the Sangroksu unit who died in an unexpected accident while conducting a mission in 2003. “The government of East Timor put up a statue to show our respect to the Sangroksu soldiers and honor their great sacrifices,” he said.

He once again expressed delight at seeing Professor Park, saying that meeting an unexpected person was a pleasing event. Especially, meeting Professor Park is very special.

By Yeong-Sun, Lee < vs119@dema.mil.kr >

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