New South Korean research vessel to support institute’s sea floor focus

The South Korean ocean research program is expanding its capabilities, broadening its focus from sea floor minerals to seismology and more, Nature News reported.

A new 5,900-ton research vessel is under construction to support the program’s shifting agenda. The Isabu will be able to deploy underwater drones, conduct seismic surveys and drill for sediment cores. Older vessels, including the program’s flagship, Onnuri, will begin allowing researchers from other programs onboard to perform scientific projects.

The research program, operated by the Korean Institute of Ocean Science and Technology with direction from the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries, focused on mineral exploration for decades due to scarcity of land-based resources.

Top image: South Korea expands the scope of their research vessels. (Credit: Korean Institute of Ocean Science and Technology)