Incheon remembers the legendary Varyag

24.03.2011 Administration of South Korean city Incheon signed an agreement on relics exchange with the Central Naval Museum of St. Petersburg, reports ITAR-TASS. The agreement deals with large exhibitory projects including exchange of exhibitions, scientific researches, joint development of historical knowledge, and patriotic education of young generation.

Close cooperation between Russia's Naval Museum and Incheon city (former Chemulpo) was established when the jack flag and other relics of heroic Russian cruiser Varyag which had been kept in Metropolitan Museum of Incheon for a long time were handed over to Russia. Artifacts transferred to Russia will become an exposition of the Central Naval Museum; the flag of the legendary cruiser is expected to be kept in Maritime Cathedral in Kronshtadt which is believed to be the main Russian Navy's sanctuary. According to Andrei Lyalin, Russia seeks to purchase other Varyag-related relics from South Korea.

As for Incheon mayor Song Young-gil, memory of the Russian cruiser scuppered off Korea is of great significance to both nations.

"We have a special relationship with St. Petersburg. Our cities are tied by the history of the legendary cruiser Varyag. Koreans have been keeping Russian relics since the ship wrecked", said the Incheon mayor.