Incheon National University Campus

Driving the development of a “capital-region maritime new industry” through interregional cooperation—from marine bio research to improving settlement conditions in island communities

Incheon National University (President: In-jae Lee) announced that it has completed the establishment of the Institute of Marine and Fisheries Industry on March 30, which will officially launch in early April. By integrating research capabilities in marine bio, smart logistics, and marine robotics, the university aims to accelerate its transition into a marine-specialized institution.

The traditional shipbuilding- and shipping-centered maritime industry is rapidly transforming into a high-value future industry driven by advanced deep technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), digital twins, and autonomous marine robotics. Despite being a major maritime gateway in the Seoul metropolitan area, Incheon has lacked a central control tower for maritime industry development.

In particular, following the relocation of the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries to Busan in 2025, there has been a growing need for a hub to sustain and strengthen the competitiveness of the West Coast maritime industry. In response, Incheon National University plans to proactively establish a development foundation for the western coastal region and serve as a key partner in marine policy, supporting everything from policy design to field implementation.

Unlike the southeastern region led by Busan, which focuses on shipbuilding and shipping, the newly established institute will concentrate on fostering a capital-region maritime industry model that leverages Incheon’s strengths in airport-port logistics and hinterland demand. This includes integrating advanced technologies such as AI, biotechnology, and digital twins.

To achieve this, the institute will launch 10 specialized centers, including: △Marine Bio Research Center △Advanced Aquaculture and Fishing Village Support Center △Marine Robotics Demonstration Center △Smart Marine Logistics Center △Marine Leisure and Tourism Center △West Sea Culture and Peace Center △Community Cooperation Center △Marine AI Data Research Center △Marine Architecture and Transportation Safety Research Center △Marine Law and Policy Research Center.

In addition, the university will carry out various programs in local areas. These include activities related to fisheries, job opportunities, and living environments. It will also conduct research and projects related to coastal areas and environmental resources.

A university official stated, “The establishment of this institute reflects Incheon National University’s commitment, as the only national university in the region, to restoring the public value of the marine and fisheries industry and driving regional economic growth,” adding, “We will align closely with policies of Incheon City and the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries to become a leading force in western coastal maritime governance.”