The HMCS Ottawa, a multi-role Canadian Navy patrol frigate, is to make a four-day port visit to Busan at the end of August, reflecting the strong bond between Canada and Korea.

Leaving her home port of Victoria, British Colombia with over 200 sailors on June 6, HMCS Ottawa embarked on a four-and-a-half month deployment that will see her travel to Korea, Australia, Japan, Singapore and several ports in the United States. 

During her visit in Busan, Commander of the Canadian Fleet Pacific Commodore Peter Ellis will host an official reception; other activities such as a tour of the DMZ and a wreath laying ceremony at the United Nations Memorial Cemetery are also planned.

On the final day in port, the ship will host 350 children from the Busan Global Village for a tour and several demonstrations.

The ports of Korea have become a regular stop for Canadian ships transiting regional waters.

The stop in Busan, expected to be a highlight of HMCS Ottawa’s WESTPLOY deployment, also gives the Canadian Navy a rare opportunity to participate in exercises with the Korean Navy.

(yoav@heraldcorp.com)