World's Largest Man-made Floating Island to be Partially Open in Seoul on May 21

SEOUL, South Korea, May 18, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- The Seoul Metropolitan Government (SMG) announced that it will partially open long-awaited "Floating Island" to the public on May 21. The Island under construction on the Hangang (Han River) is the largest artificial floating island in the world and the first equipped with an aquatic convention center.

The Floating Island comprised of three artificial islets is currently being constructed on the river around Banpo Hangang Park in Seoul. It is scheduled for completion in September this year.

The Island that makes up the sprawling 20,382 square-meter has been developed under three key themes of exhibition and convention, culture, and aquatic-leisure. The KRW 96.4 billion (approx. USD 88 million) project was invested entirely with private funds.

Key infrastructure for Seoul's tourism and convention goals

Islet 1, the biggest of the three islets, is three stories high and measures 10,845 square meters. It includes a 700-seat convention hall. Islet 2, a three-story structure measuring 5,373 square meters, puts a focus on developing facilities for cultural events. Islet 3, two stories high, takes up a 4,164 square-meter area and is devoted to various aquatic leisure sports activities like yachting.

SMG expects this center to play a pivotal role in advancing its tourism and convention sectors. The total number of seats for exhibitions and conventions reaches 1,400 uniting all three of the islets.

State-of-the-art safety and eco-friendly system

The Floating Island is equipped with a state-of-the- art safety system to prevent damage from inclement weather conditions. 28 three-ply weather-resistant mooring chains secure the Floating Island, ensuring it stays in position and afloat in the event of a flood or other dire weather condition.

The sewage treatment plant will be managed according to strict environmental standards. In addition, solar energy panels measuring 54 square meters and generating 6 kilowatts per house of energy each day have been built on the first-story roof of Islet 1.

SMG added that it will improve public accessibility to the Island by launching a weekend bus and expanding bus lines.

"We hope that Floating Island will contribute to raising the brand value of Seoul as one of the city's key landmarks," said Gyoung Gee Liu, Assistant Mayor for Hangang Project Headquarters.

    
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