The Korean Ocean Research and Development Institute (KORDI) with its headquarters in Ansan, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea, has driven development of the marine sciences and technology of Korea for over 40 years since its establishment in 1973. It started functioning with a new name of Korean Institute of Ocean Science and Technology (KIOST) from July 1, 2012.
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Mission
The main functions of KIOST are:
- To perform basic and applied research to promote the efficient use of coastal and ocean resources
- To undertake comprehensive surveys and studies of Korea's seas and open oceans
- To conduct scientific research in polar and tropical regions, especially in Antarctica and the south Pacific
- To develop technologies related to the coastal and harbor engineering, ships and ocean engineering, and maritime safety
- To support and cooperate with other government agencies, universities and private industries towards the development of marine resources and the protection of the ocean environment.
- To coordinate and participate in the international cooperation concerning oceanographic research projects
Research interests
The KIOST also undertakes fundamental research in Antarctica. The main areas of interest are geological and geophysical science, the life sciences, and climate science. The institute owns the RV Onnuri, which is used to supply the year-round Antarctic station the King Sejong Station (62.13'S; 58°45'W).
Partnerships
KIOST has signed Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) and bilateral agreements with national research institutes in China, Micronesia, United States, United Kingdom and Peru. Tertiary educational partners include the Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Rutgers University and the Virginia Institute of Marine Science at the University of Virginia in the United States. Partner organizations include Partnership for Observation of the Global Oceans and Partnerships in Environmental Management for the Seas of East Asia.
History
Founded as the Korean Ocean Research and Development Institute (KORDI) in 1973, it was originally located at the Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST).