Landlocked North Chungcheong gets first national marine science museum in Cheongju

North Chungcheong Province, which has no coastline, has opened its first national marine cultural facility. The National Cheongju Marine Science Museum, built at a cost of 98.3 billion won ($72.7 million), gives inland residents and children their first easy access to hands-on exhibits on marine life, climate change and ocean pollution.

The Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries held an opening ceremony at the museum in Cheongwon-gu, Cheongju, North Chungcheong Province on Tuesday and said full operations would begin Wednesday.

The museum is the first national marine cultural facility built in an inland region. Constructed at a total project cost of 98.3 billion won, it covers a total floor area of 14,980 square meters across one below-ground and three above-ground floors. Built around the theme "The Ocean Through Science, the Future Found in the Sea," the facility is designed as an interactive space where visitors can explore issues facing humanity — including climate change and resource depletion — through a marine lens.

The third-floor Future Ocean Observatory examines ocean-related challenges such as climate change, marine pollution and resource depletion, along with potential solutions. A digital aquarium spanning the second and third floors lets visitors encounter diverse marine creatures through immersive video. On the first floor, the Children's Ocean Experience Hall uses play-based activities to teach visitors about marine debris and the importance of clean oceans.

The museum will also run ocean education programs. Starting Wednesday, it will offer tailored programs for preschoolers and elementary school students, including "Follow the River to the Sea!" and "Protect the Home of Our Ocean Friends!" An opening commemorative exhibition, "The Beginning: A New Wave," will also be on display.

To mark the opening, visitors who complete a stamp tour across all exhibition halls between Wednesday and Monday will receive commemorative gifts. Magic performances for families will be held Saturday through Monday.

The opening ceremony was held under the theme "Opening the Future of the Ocean with the People, from the Heart of Korea." About 200 people attended, including Oceans and Fisheries Minister Hwang Jong-woo, North Chungcheong Province Governor Shin Yong-han, North Chungcheong Province Superintendent of Education Yoon Geon-young, Cheongju Mayor Lee Jang-seop and local residents.

"The National Cheongju Marine Science Museum was created so that all citizens — coastal and inland alike — can share in ocean culture," Hwang said. "I hope the museum will establish itself as a hub for inland ocean education and serve as a stepping stone for more future generations to learn about and explore the sea, growing into ocean talent."