A renowned marine convergence research institute from Belgium has opened in Songdo International City, Incheon.
The Incheon Free Economic Zone Authority announced on the 22nd that it has inaugurated 'MarineUGent Korea,' a branch of the Marine Research Institute affiliated with Ghent University in Belgium, at the Incheon Global Campus (IGC) in Songdo.
MarineUGent Korea plans to promote various marine research and development (R&D), foster new industries, commercialize bio and environmental technologies, and cultivate global talent.
South Korea ranks first in the world in marine biological resources and seafood consumption, and also ranks fourth in port cargo volume, demonstrating outstanding potential. With the opening of MarineUGent, Korean marine science and technology is expected to take a leap to a global level.
The opening ceremony of 'Marine UGent Korea,' a branch of the Marine Research Institute affiliated with Ghent University in Belgium, is being held on the 22nd at Incheon Global Campus. [Photo by Incheon Economic Promotion Agency]
Established in 2012, MarineUGent has research institutes located at Ghent University and Ostend Science Park in Belgium, employing over 500 professors and researchers.
Colin Jansen, Director of MarineUGent Korea, said, "Incheon is like a living laboratory with rich marine biodiversity, and the economic value of the West Sea tidal flats is particularly significant. We look forward to the synergy between MarineUGent's research capabilities and Korean marine science and technology."
Yoon Won-seok, Commissioner of the Incheon Free Economic Zone Authority, stated, "We will continue to attract leading overseas research institutes and universities to the Incheon Global Campus to expand the industry-academia-research cooperation ecosystem and make Songdo a global R&D hub city."
Aerial view of Songdo International City Incheon Global Campus [Photo provided by Incheon Free Economic Zone Authority]
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