South Korean authorities today announced that the first section of an enormous artificial island floating in the Han River in Seoul will officially open at the weekend.
Known simply as “Floating Island”, the artificial construction is thought to be the largest of its kind in the world (the artificial islands off Dubai do not actually float), and will also be the first one to feature a fully equipped convention center.
The huge development, which measures in at 20,383 square meters, is actually comprised of three separate islets. Although phase one is due to open, the island is still under construction, with the full completion date scheduled for late September this year.
Three key themes have defined the complex’s development – aquatic leisure, culture and exhibition/convention.
The biggest of the three islets, called ‘Vista’, measures 10,845 square meters and is three stories tall. Inside, there is a convention hall that can seat 700 people, equipped with all-new modern facilities. Vista will also be able to host concerts, festivals and plays.
Islet two, which is to be called ‘Viva’ will also be three stories tall, and will measure 5,373 square meters, and will be the focus of cultural events, activities and exhibitions.
Finally, ‘Terra’ which at just two stories high will be the smallest of the three islets, will be all about leisure. The islet will measure 4,164 square meters, and will offer all kinds of aquatic recreation, like yachting, kayaking, jet-skis etc.
The cost of the Floating Island, which will sit just off the Banpo Hangang Park in the capital, is reported to have totaled $88 million.
“We are confident that the Floating Island will become instantly recognizable as one of the most important landmarks in the city, and make an important contribution to Seoul’s brand value,” commented Gyoung Gee Liu, of the Hangang Project firm behind the development of the island.