Incheon Launches Seaweed Research Cooperation

The Incheon Fisheries Resources Research Institute recently signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the University of Southern California and Kelp Ark, a research organization specializing in seaweed genetic resource conservation. The agreement was signed in Los Angeles on October 27 (local time) with the aim of advancing seaweed resource conservation technologies along the Incheon coast.

By leveraging the United States' strong research infrastructure, the collaboration seeks to respond to future changes in the marine environment, focusing on blue carbon research.

Under the MOU, the partnering institutions will exchange information on technologies for seaweed genetic resource conservation and management, conduct joint research in physiology, ecology, and cultivation technology, and explore the impacts of climate change on the seaweed ecological environment. The agreement also includes provisions for the exchange of research personnel and academic information. Technical cooperation for the sustainable use of seaweed resources will be implemented in stages.

The University of Southern California, a prominent U.S. research-focused university, will contribute its extensive research in marine biology and ecology. Kelp Ark, another participating institution, is renowned for its role in preserving biodiversity through the collection, conservation, and cultivation of seaweed genetic resources.

Incheon Fisheries Resources Research Institute plans to utilize its expertise in seaweed resource surveying, seed production, and mass production of useful seaweed in this international cooperation.

Kim Ik-jung, director general of Incheon Metropolitan City's Bureau of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, emphasized the importance of this MOU for Incheon's seaweed research, stating it as a significant opportunity for expansion into international cooperation. He added that through ongoing technical and human exchanges with U.S. research institutions, the institute aims to strengthen the research foundation necessary to address future changes in the marine environment, including blue carbon research.