IGEE at Yonsei University

Along with the coral reef whitening phenomenon, the restoration of marine ecosystems is a highly timely issue. The goal of this research project is to use biotechnology and robotics to present effective modeling of coral reef ecosystems.

The following three effects can be expected as the research progresses.

First, the development of a sustainable artificial coral reef model can be expected to preserve the marine ecosystem. The fundamental way to save coral reefs is to protect the environment and respond to climate crises, but as the ramifications of climate change become more and more prominent, each recovery project must be accordingly accompanied.

Second, it can lead to increasing awareness of coral reefs. Through a project to solve the whitening phenomenon of coral reefs in Korea, the public also gave attention to coral reefs. Overseas cases are often highlighted rather than domestic coral reef whitening phenomena, so it is necessary to be aware of the whitening phenomenon in Korea.

Finally, we have a plan to verify the technological effectiveness and apply it to the ocean of Korea. Various marine life inhabits the Yeonsan Lake colony on the southern coast of Jeju Island, and it is also designated as a natural monument. In 2016, the whitening phenomenon (sea desertification) was already underway in about half of Jeju, the East Sea, and the south coast. Australia's largest coral reef, the Great Lakes colony, has experienced a massive whitening phenomenon six times and covers 91 percent of its range. Preemptive preservation is needed to prevent large-scale whitening phenomena in Korea's oceans.

Therefore, we plan to prevent sea desertification in advance by producing artificial coral reef modeling, and would like to contribute to the research on the restoration of the coral ecosystem.

▶ Activity up to September 2023

▶ Activity up to January 2024.