Underwater Marine Observation Deck to Open by 2020

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The structure of the observation building is expected to weigh 2,450 tons and to stand 26.25 meters tall. image: Min. of Oceans & Fisheries

By January 2020, people will be able to go underwater in the East Sea to visit its mysterious marine ecosystem with ease.

The Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries announced yesterday that it plans to install an eight-storey half-underwater observation deck near the National Marine Science Center currently being built in Uljin, North Gyeongsang Province.

The structure of the observation building is expected to weigh 2,450 tons and to stand 26.25 meters tall.

Considering that the structure will be built underwater, the building will be designed to be waterproof and earthquake resistant.

The foundation for the building was erected in July, upon which the main structure will be built. The observation deck will be connected with the Marine Science Center underwater via a passageway spanning 393 meters.

The structure was designed to stand 11 meters above the surface and 6 meters below water. Artificial reefs are expected to be installed near the observation deck along with large artworks depicting whales and sea lions.

The ministry will be completing the construction of the external structure by July next year before coming up with the details for the exhibition to be housed within.

Meanwhile, 104.5 billion won has been injected into the construction of the Marine Science Center, which will cover an area of 111,000 square meters.

The total floor space of the building will be 12,345 square meters. The center is expected to open in May of 2020.

Article by Korea Bzwire, All Right Reserved