BUSAN — Gimhae International Airport, a key entry point for delegates attending the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit in Gyeongju, conducted a large-scale anti-terrorism drill on November 11th to enhance security measures. The exercise, titled "Safety is National Trust," simulated a series of terrorist scenarios to ensure a rapid and coordinated response during the high-profile event.

The drill, led by Gimhae Airport, involved approximately 100 personnel from 13 different agencies, including the National Intelligence Service, Busan Regional Aviation Administration, Busan Police Agency, and the 5th Air Mobility Wing of the Air Force. The participants utilized 31 pieces of equipment, including explosive ordnance disposal vehicles and tactical armored vehicles, to create a highly realistic training environment.

The training focused on a phased response to potential threats within the airport. Key scenarios included neutralizing illegal drones, apprehending terrorists, and handling chemical, biological, and explosive (CBE) threats. An EOD team was specifically seen handling an additional explosive device, demonstrating a meticulous approach to threat elimination.

Nam Chang-hee, the director of Gimhae International Airport, underscored the importance of the drill. "The safety of Gimhae International Airport is directly linked to national credibility," he stated. "We will establish a practical system to respond immediately to any situation during the APEC summit and will strengthen our cooperation with related agencies to focus our efforts on preventing terrorism."

The collaborative effort highlighted the commitment of various government and military organizations to ensure the safety and security of the APEC summit participants. The proactive approach aims to prevent any security breaches and ensure a smooth and safe experience for all attendees.

This recent drill is part of a series of preparedness exercises. Another training session focusing on aircraft accident response, involving civilian, government, and military entities, is scheduled for November 18th at Gimhae Airport. These comprehensive drills demonstrate South Korea’s dedication to safeguarding the APEC summit and its participants, reinforcing the nation's reputation for security and reliability on the international stage.

The successful execution of this joint anti-terrorism exercise sets a strong precedent for the level of security that will be in place during the APEC summit, ensuring that delegates can travel with confidence. The thorough preparation reflects the serious commitment to upholding the highest standards of safety and national trust.