National Marine Urban Science Museum Project Begins KDI Feasibility Study... Full-Scale Site Visit Set for May

The "National Marine Urban Science Museum Construction Project" has gained momentum following a preliminary feasibility study by the Korea Development Institute (KDI). According to Jeonbuk Special Self-Governing Province on April 26, the project entered a full review phase about a month after it was selected as a target project by the Financial Project Evaluation Committee under the Ministry of Economy and Finance on March 10.

Jeonbuk Special Self-Governing Province Government Building Exterior

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The museum will be built in the Simpho Port area of Gimje City. The total project cost is 135.4 billion won, with a planned gross floor area of 17,000 square meters. Centered on the concept of a marine city, the facility will combine renewable energy and emerging marine industries, featuring exhibition, education, and experiential functions.

Unlike existing marine cultural facilities, this project stands out for its emphasis on the "marine city" concept. It aims to differentiate itself by creating a future-oriented space that integrates the ocean, city, energy, and industry through interactive content.

The project will also be pursued in alignment with the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries’ “2nd Basic Plan for the Promotion of Marine Education and Marine Culture (2026-2030),” based on the “Act on the Promotion of Marine Education and Marine Culture.” It is intended to serve as a key infrastructure to enhance understanding of the ocean and promote the spread of marine culture.

In May, the KDI preliminary feasibility study committee will visit the site to assess location conditions, demand, and project feasibility. In preparation, Jeonbuk Province is expediting efforts such as organizing relevant materials and reinforcing cooperation systems with related agencies.

Additionally, by collaborating with the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries and Gimje City, the province is simultaneously working on policy enhancements, demand analysis, and differentiation strategies. It is also proceeding with consulting services for the feasibility study and efforts to secure national funding. If the project comes to fruition, Jeonbuk is expected to secure a national foundation for marine science and culture, moving closer to establishing a future-oriented marine city model that integrates marine industry and tourism, with Saemangeum as its core.

Kim Mijeong, Director of the Saemangeum Marine Affairs Bureau of Jeonbuk Province, stated, "This preliminary feasibility study is a critical turning point that will determine the success or failure of the National Marine Urban Science Museum construction. We will work closely with the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries and Gimje City to ensure the project passes the feasibility study and elevate Saemangeum as the central hub of Korea’s emerging marine industries."

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