Jang Bogo Station
The Jang Bogo Station is a permanent South Korean research station located in Antarctica's Terra Nova Bay, on the coast of Northern Victoria Land. It is the country's second base in Antarctica and its first on the main continent, complementing the earlier King Sejong Station on King George Island.
Jang Bogo Station | |
|---|---|
South Korean Jang Bogo Station seen from a ridge south of it in January 2017 | |
Jang Bogo Station Location of Jang Bogo Station in Antarctica | |
| Coordinates: 74°37′26″S 164°13′44″E / 74.624015°S 164.228815°E | |
| Established | February 2014 |
| Elevation | 36.6 m (120.1 ft) |
| Population (2017) | |
| • Summer | 62 |
| • Winter | 23 |
| Website | Korea Polar Research Institute |
History and Naming
Named after Jang Bogo, a powerful Korean maritime ruler from the 8th century, the station was officially inaugurated in February 2014.[1] Its establishment was a significant step for South Korea, making it the tenth country to operate more than one research station in Antarctica. The station was designed to be a modern and sustainable facility, with a modular design to withstand the harsh Antarctic conditions, including strong winds and extremely low temperatures.
Research
Jang Bogo Station is a hub for multidisciplinary scientific research, particularly focused on understanding the Antarctic environment and its role in global climate change. Key research areas include:
- Earth sciences: Studies in geology and geophysics, including research on the Transantarctic Mountains.
- Cryosphere: Investigating ice sheets, glaciers, ice shelves, and their interactions with the ocean.
- Atmospheric and Space sciences: Monitoring atmospheric conditions, studying the aurora, and analyzing cosmic rays.
- Life sciences: Research on the biodiversity and adaptation of organisms living in the polar environment, from marine life in the Ross Sea to terrestrial ecosystems on the continent.
Logistics and Operations
The station is operated by the Korea Polar Research Institute (KOPRI) and can accommodate up to 62 people in the summer and a smaller wintering crew of around 23. Due to its remote location, the base relies heavily on external logistical support. The Korean icebreaker, the R.V. Araon, provides essential resupply missions, while air support, including the transport of personnel and cargo, is often provided in cooperation with the Italian Antarctic Program, using the nearby ice runway at Italy's Zucchelli Station.
- ↑ "donga.com[English donga]". The Dong-a Ilbo. Retrieved 2 August 2015.