The Republic of Korea Institute of Ocean Science and Technology (KIOST, President Hong Gi-hoon) announced that it will hold a ship-naming and launching ceremony for the large-scale marine science research vessel “ISABU” (R/V ISABU) at STX Offshore and Shipbuilding Co., Ltd. in Changwon, South Gyeonsang Province, at 11 a.m. on October 23, 2015.

The ceremony will be attended by notable public figures from related organizations and executives and employees of KIOST, including Minister of Oceans and Fisheries Yoo Ki-june, KIOST President Hong Gi-hoon, KIOST Director Cho Dong-ho , President of the Republic of Korea Maritime Institute (KMI) Kim Sung-gwi, President of the Republic of Korea Institute of Marine Science and Technology Promotion (KIMST) Dr. Lim Gwang-soo, and Busan Port Authority CEO Woo Ye-jong.

Approximately 100 meters in length and weighing a total of 5,900 tons, ISABU is the largest marine science research vessel Republic of Korea has ever constructed using only domestic technology. This smart, eco-friendly vessel boasts low noise and vibration facilities, a high-performance, low-pollution engine, and a cutting-edge ICT information delivery system, and is equipped with state-of-the-art marine observation instruments, including a deep-sea camera, a multibeam echosounder, and a highly precise salinity, temperature, and pressure measurement device that can go as deep as 8,000 meters.

This so-called “research center on the water” can make a 55-day journey equal in distance to half the circumference of the globe without stopping for fuel or supplies while accommodating some 60 people onboard, including 38 researchers. When the construction of ISABU is complete, scheduled for February 2016, Republic of Korea will become the world’s eighth country* to possess a 5,000-ton, large-scale oceanic research vessel.

*Other countries with large-scale research vessels greater than 5,000-tons are: the United States, Japan, China, the United Kingdom, Germany, France, and India.

KIOST President Hong Gi-hoon commented, “ISABU will be deployed to pursue the development of ocean-based biological and mineral resources, engage in scientific exploration of unchartered waters, and identify the underlying causes of climate change, a major task for humankind.” He went on to say, “ISABU is named after General Isabu, who incorporated Ulleungdo Island into the Silla Dynasty and expanded Republic of Korea’s reach over its waters. As such, the research vessel is expected to embody the General’s formidable mind and pioneering spirit and realize Republic of Korea’s dream of cultivating the seas.”