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Special envoy for strategic economic cooperation, Chief of Staff Kang Hoon-sik, who is in Canada, met with senior Canadian government officials.

On the 29th, Kang shared on Facebook that he handed over a personal letter from President Lee to Prime Minister Mark Carney. He then met one after another with the Prime Minister’s Chief of Staff, the Minister of National Defense, the Minister of Defense Procurement, the Minister of Industry, and the Minister of Finance to talk about submarine projects and security-industrial collaboration. He highlighted South Korea’s submarines, saying, “They are designed and constructed with the mentality that my own sons and daughters would be on board,” and continued, “That is why we strive to make them like a ‘five-star hotel.’”

He stated, “Why wouldn’t we? Submarines function in complete darkness, cold, and deep-sea areas that are isolated, where contact with the outside world is not possible. It’s typical for crews to stay submerged for many days without coming up.” He added, “If we picture our sons and daughters on board, it makes sense that even during emergencies, they should not be harmed and should have places to rest comfortably. Naturally, the submarines must also be dependable in their operation within the deep, cold ocean.”

Kang also mentioned the responses from Canadian officials. Defense Minister David McGuinty, who had previously experienced a severe head injury, reportedly nodded in approval after examining a submarine being built at Hanwha Shipyard in Geoje last year, stating he had no worries regarding safety. He further said, “At that moment, I wanted to take it back to Canada right away,” as reported by Kang.

Finance Minister François-Philippe Champagne indicated a desire to increase collaborative opportunities and demonstrated readiness to offer financial and administrative assistance. Kang mentioned that Champagne, whose child is a devoted K-pop enthusiast and a member of BTS’s fanbase “ARMY,” became open quickly, facilitating an easy conversation. He expressed appreciation, stating, “Every time I meet with foreign officials, I gain from the efforts of our cultural industry.”

Steven Guilbeault, the Minister of National Defense Procurement and a former Air Force pilot, shared with Kang his intention to visit South Korea next week and personally take part in a submarine journey conducted by the Navy. Kang also noted discussions with Mark-Anthony Blanchard, the Chief of Staff to the Prime Minister, Mélanie Joly, the Minister of Industry, and senators such as Hassan Yusuff, who leads the Senate Defense Committee.

Kang said, “Canada is firmly committed to using this submarine acquisition project as a key shift in its industrial and security strategies. All top officials repeatedly highlighted that this goes beyond simply acquiring new military equipment.” He further noted, “This initiative will also represent a significant advancement for South Korea’s defense sector. If it succeeds, it will be the biggest step yet into Western markets and is anticipated to open the door for comprehensive access to NATO markets.”

He stated, “We met with all the key decision-makers not only about the submarine project but also in terms of industrial and security collaboration. We expressed our intentions and genuine commitment fully. Now, it’s a matter of entrusting the rest to chance.”