Locals up in Arms Against Jeju Naval Parade

The International Fleet Review in Jeju scheduled for October faces stiff opposition from locals who do not want the noisy display of maritime force in their backyard.

The fleet review is an event held every 10 years to mark the anniversary of the armed forces. Top naval officials from 30 countries are invited, and 20 to 30 foreign warships will take part. President Moon Jae-in is scheduled to attend and inspect the vessels.

But residents near the naval base and left-wing civic groups have teamed up to oppose the event.

Residents of Gangjeong Village held a debate on Sunday, where government officials tried in vain to convince them to support the fleet review.

The Defense Ministry and the Navy have been trying to impress on the villagers the importance of the 70th anniversary of armed forces. The Navy says time is running out, since it needs to select a venue by the end of this month so that invitations can be sent out and accommodation arranged.