I am an editorial writer at The Korea Times, focusing on foreign policy, North Korea and domestic politics. My key areas of interest include North Korea, foreign interference in elections, election integrity, cyberattacks and human rights. Prior to joining the Editorial Board, I served as both Politics Desk editor and Culture Desk editor. During my career, I have reported on the Presidential Office under the Lee Myung-bak administration, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the National Assembly.
Who Is Nam Ki-hoon?
By Kang Hyun-kyung
Staff Reporter
The late Nam Ki-hoon, senior chief petty officer of the frigate Cheonan, was found dead Saturday by a naval rescue diving team near the cafeteria in the stern of the sunken vessel in the West Sea.
He was one of the 46 sailors listed as missing after the naval ship sank on March 26 near the maritime border between South and North Korea.
Nam, 36, was in charge of the ship's gun control system.
Since joining the Navy back in 1994, he had 16 years experience in the position and joined the Cheonan in May, 2006.
Nam won several Navy awards, including a prize from the commander of the Second Fleet, for his commitment and distinguished service. He had 10 or more professional certificates and licenses in his area of specialization.
Senior Chief Petty Officer Moon Jong-won, who joined the Navy with Nam the same year, recalled that Nam was a hard worker who had exceptional expertise in naval gunnery.
Another officer said Nam was a model sailor who endeavored to sharpen his skills.
His body was taken to the 2nd Fleet in Pyeongtaek, Gyeonggi Province, Sunday. He is survived by his wife Ji Young-shin and three sons.
The Navy plans to hold a funeral service after the remaining 45 missing sailors are found.