Peru’s naval tradition and the modern navy
My fascination with Peru began in 2010 at the National Museum of Korea exhibition “The Great Myth and Mystery of Peruvian Civilization: Inca.” The Inca Empire, rooted in Cusco — the “navel of the world” — left an indelible mark on Peru’s history and culture. What started as admiration for an ancient civilization soon grew into a curiosity about Peru’s proud naval tradition, a legacy that combines valor, adaptability and enduring strategic importance.
The modern history of the Peruvian navy, rich in courage and resilience, extends back more than two centuries. In 1821, under the leadership of Jose de San Martin, Peru began its struggle for independence from Spain, laying the foundation for its naval force. Since then, the navy has evolved in response to geographical and regional dynamics, becoming a pivotal actor in South America’s balance of power. Its role was particularly critical during the War of the Pacific in 1879, where maritime strength shaped the course of conflict.
A defining moment in this history was the Battle of Angamos on Oct. 8, 1879. The Peruvian ship Monitor Huascar, commanded by Adm. Miguel Grau, faced overwhelming odds against six Chilean warships. Refusing to surrender, Grau fought with extraordinary bravery, ultimately sacrificing both his life and ship. His heroism immortalized him as a national icon and earned international recognition for Peru’s navy. Each year, Oct. 8 is commemorated as Peruvian Navy Day, honoring Grau’s legacy of selfless service. His life and valor are often compared to those of Korea’s Adm. Yi Sun-sin (1545-98), who secured decisive victories during the Japanese invasions of Korea with brilliant maritime strategy and an indomitable spirit.
The institutional strength of the navy was further shaped by President Ramon Castilla during his 1845-62 administration. Under his leadership, Peru rose as a dominant military and economic power in Latin America. Castilla not only modernized the Peruvian navy but also enacted profound social reforms, including the abolition of slavery in 1854 — nine years before the U.S. Emancipation Proclamation.
In the 20th century, Peru pursued further naval modernization through international cooperation. After 1929, the American Naval Mission replaced the French Mission as advisers, reorganizing the navy along U.S. strategic lines and deepening ties between the two nations’ maritime forces.
Although modern geopolitical dynamics have shifted, reducing the intensity of the historic Peru-Chile rivalry, the navy’s mission remains as vital as ever. Today, it continues to safeguard national sovereignty and secure maritime interests while embracing modernization to meet new security challenges.
This tradition of valor, embodied by Grau, is now reinforced by international partnerships and advanced capabilities. A notable example is the recent contract between Korea’s HD Hyundai Heavy Industries and Peru’s SIMA shipyard to jointly produce warships. The participation of former Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol and Peruvian President Dina Boluarte in a nameplate signing ceremony in November 2024 for three new naval vessels underscored the depth of this collaboration.
Peru’s global engagement extends beyond naval matters. Hosting the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Summit for the third time in 2024, after previously hosting in 2008 and 2016, reflected the nation’s commitment to strengthening relations with the Asia-Pacific region. In this spirit of regional cooperation, the APEC Summit 2025 will convene in Gyeongju, Korea, in late October, further deepening ties across the Pacific.
Together, Peru and Korea are not only advancing naval innovation but also contributing to regional stability and setting a new benchmark for international maritime cooperation. Honoring their legacies while embracing modern partnerships, both nations chart a course toward a shared future of security, progress and mutual respect.
Choe Chong-dae (choecd@naver.com) is a guest columnist of The Korea Times. He is president of Dae-kwang International Co., and founding director of the Korean-Swedish Association.