Wales' first citizen ceremony

The Chois said it was an important and memorable day.

A former missionary from Korea and her two adult sons have taken part in Wales' first UK citizenship ceremony.

Moon-sook, Sung-ho and Jaeho Choi took an oath swearing loyalty to the Queen and the UK at Swansea's County Hall.

The service, which saw the playing of both the British and Welsh national anthems, was attended by Swansea's lord mayor and high sheriff.

Everyone who applies to become UK citizens are now required to take part in similar services following changes introduced by Home Secretary David Blunkett.

Mrs Choi, who was presented with a bouquet of daffodils, said it was an important and memorable day for them.

I do regard it as my home because people have been fantastic and we have never had any problems settling into the community Jaeho Choi

Children from local schools sang both the anthems and a harpist played as the Chois swore their oath of allegiance.

Although the ceremony was in English, a greeting in Welsh was also made.

The family has been living in the Sketty area of Swansea for 10 years since Mrs Choi first came to the UK from Seoul as a missionary.

She is now in training top become a minister with the Presbyterian church.

Both her sons are students, Sung-ho, 23, is taking a post graduate degree in London and Jaeho, 20, is at Oxford studying modern languages.

After the ceremony Jaeho said: "Because we have been living here for so long it's time that we as a family are fully integrated into society.

"I do regard it as my home because people have been fantastic and we have never had any problems settling into the community.

"This ceremony is just a bonus really."

Sung-ho Choi is welcomed by Swansea's High Sheriff Jane Clayton

His brother added: "It's always nice to have confirmation of being part of the community."

Wednesday's ceremony was conducted by Swansea's superintendent registrar Edith Morgan who usually conducts marriages. She said she now anticipates officiating at up to 20 citizenship ceremonies a year.

"This ceremony is an opportunity for the community of Swansea to fully welcome its new citizens and give them a sense of belonging to the community.

"The importance of this is to promote greater respect and mutual understanding of our cultures."

Lord Mayor Laurence Bailey said: "Swansea does have a long history of cultural diversity which is something that we celebrate as often as we can.

"This is an important event and one that we welcome."