Incheon, South Korea – The National Incheon Maritime Museum, the first of its kind in the metropolitan area, officially opened its doors to the public on December 12th. The museum, located in the Wolmido district of Incheon, has been five years in the making and represents a significant investment of 101.6 billion won from the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries and Incheon Metropolitan City.

Spanning over 17,318 square meters, the museum boasts a variety of exhibits, including a children's museum, a digital immersive theater, galleries dedicated to maritime history and port development, a library, and temporary exhibition spaces. A highlight of the opening is the special exhibition, "Steady Course," which showcases over 160 artifacts donated by 50 individuals, including the national flag flown on the Donghaeho, the ship that carried the first Korean to circumnavigate the globe.

To celebrate its grand opening, the museum has planned a series of events for visitors of all ages. These include storytelling sessions, magic shows, and craft workshops for children, as well as an academic conference on marine culture and sustainability.

"With more than half of the South Korean population residing in the metropolitan area, there has been a lack of accessible maritime cultural facilities," said U Dong-sik, director of the National Incheon Maritime Museum. "We aim to provide a world-class experience that allows visitors to learn about the history and culture of the sea, fostering a deeper appreciation for our oceans."

The museum is open from 10 AM to 6 PM, Tuesday through Sunday, and admission is free.