The South Korean Air Force’s Black Eagles aerobatic team draws a Taeguek pattern — the symbol at the center of the national flag — with smoke trails during a performance above the Han River in Seoul on Saturday, commemorating the inaugural K-Defense Day on July 8. (Yonhap)
The South Korean Air Force’s Black Eagles aerobatic team draws a Taeguek pattern — the symbol at the center of the national flag — with smoke trails during a performance above the Han River in Seoul on Saturday, commemorating the inaugural K-Defense Day on July 8. (Yonhap)

The South Korean Air Force’s Black Eagles aerobatic team performed a commemorative flight over the skies of Seoul on Saturday, marking the inaugural K-Defense Day.

Designated as an official commemorative day on July 8, 2023, K-Defense Day is being formally observed for the first time this year. The occasion celebrates the development of South Korea’s defense industry and honors the contributions of those working in the sector.

The Air Force's Black Eagles aerobatic team performs above the Han River in Seoul on Satruday to commemorate K-Defense Day on July 8. (Yonhap)
The Air Force's Black Eagles aerobatic team performs above the Han River in Seoul on Satruday to commemorate K-Defense Day on July 8. (Yonhap)

K-Defense Day falls on July 8 each year, commemorating a historic moment in 1592, when Korea’s iconic turtle ship was first deployed in battle during the Battle of Sacheon amid the Imjin War (1592–1598), according to the state-run Defense Acquisition Program Administration.

"It will serve as a reminder of the historic moment when we defended the nation with weapons of our own making — and as an opportunity to highlight the importance of the defense industry and to recognize the dedication and sacrifices of those who serve in it," DAPA said.

The Air Force's Black Eagles aerobatic team performs above the Han River in Seoul on Saturday to commemorate K-Defense Day on July 8. (Yonhap)
The Air Force's Black Eagles aerobatic team performs above the Han River in Seoul on Saturday to commemorate K-Defense Day on July 8. (Yonhap)
People watch the South Korean Air Force’s Black Eagles aerobatic team perform a celebratory flight marking the inaugural K-Defense Day, observed annually on July 8, at Banpo Hangang Park in southern Seoul on Saturday. (Yonhap)
People watch the South Korean Air Force’s Black Eagles aerobatic team perform a celebratory flight marking the inaugural K-Defense Day, observed annually on July 8, at Banpo Hangang Park in southern Seoul on Saturday. (Yonhap)

dagyumji@heraldcorp.com