South Korea, LG Electronics to Create Large Marine Forest in Goseong

South Korea's Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries and LG Electronics are joining forces to create a significant marine forest off the coast of Goseong in South Gyeongsang Province. The initiative aims to establish a 1.5 square kilometer area, roughly the size of 210 soccer fields, by 2029.

This ambitious project is a public-private collaboration involving LG Electronics, the Gyeongsangnam-do provincial government, and the Korea Fisheries Resources Agency. The total investment for the marine forest creation is 1.3 billion won, with both the ministry and LG Electronics contributing 650 million won each.

The marine forest will be established through direct transplantation of seaweed and the installation of spore diffusion facilities. To ensure the healthy growth of seaweed, efforts will also include removing impurities from rock surfaces and eliminating sea urchins that feed on the algae. The Korea Fisheries Resources Agency will manage the project's execution, while the Gyeongsangnam-do province will oversee post-establishment monitoring.

Marine forests are vital ecosystems where seaweed forms dense clusters. They provide essential habitats for a diverse range of marine life. Beyond their ecological role, these underwater forests also contribute to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and purifying polluted waters, offering significant environmental and economic advantages.