[Danuri Launch] Lee Jong-ho, Minister of Science and ICT, "We Will Put More Effort into Space Development"

Direct Viewing in the U.S. Local Time on the Morning of the 5th

[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Bong-su] On the morning of the 5th (Korean time), Minister Lee Jong-ho of the Ministry of Science and ICT pledged, "We will further enhance our space exploration capabilities," after South Korea's first lunar probe 'Danuri' succeeded in its initial communication following launch. 'Danuri Launch'

At the launch site in Cape Canaveral, Florida, USA, where the launch took place, Minister Lee, who witnessed Danuri's ascent, expressed in a statement distributed to the joint press corps, "I am very pleased that South Korea's first space probe Danuri has successfully made its first communication with the ground station," adding, "Danuri, which is leaving Earth's gravity for the first time and heading to the Moon, will be recorded as the first step in the history of South Korea's space exploration. I deeply thank the 59 affiliated research institutes, universities, and industries who have long been involved in developing Danuri."

Minister Lee continued, "With the success of the initial communication, Danuri has officially begun its journey toward the Moon," but also pointed out, "However, confirming the 'lunar transfer orbit insertion' requires 2 to 3 hours of precise data analysis, and there is still a long way to go for Danuri, including lunar orbit insertion and carrying out its mission for one year." He also stated, "The government will spare no effort in active interest, support, and endeavors until Danuri successfully completes all its missions."

Minister Lee said, "South Korea is now making a great leap beyond Earth. The government plans to independently launch a 'lunar lander' with our own launch vehicle by 2031 and will continue to enhance South Korea's space exploration capabilities by participating in Artemis, the international manned space exploration program," adding, "We will move forward together with the people until the moment South Korea enjoys the entire universe beyond Earth."

He also urged, "I hope all citizens will take an interest and watch closely until Danuri's mission is successful."