A special event allowed Busan residents to board university training and research vessels, which are usually off-limits to the public.
On October 16, Pukyong National University hosted the 'Open-Ship' event at the Yongho Bay reclamation area in Busan, opening its marine education and research facilities to local residents.
This year's event, the fourth of its kind, attracted over 130 participants from the community.
The highlight of the day was the opportunity to board the 'Baekgyeongho.' Launched in 2021 at a cost of 53.2 billion won, the Baekgyeongho (3,997 tons) is 97 meters long and has a capacity of 160 people, making it the largest training vessel owned by a domestic fisheries university.
Instead of students, 94 residents boarded the Baekgyeongho, guided by 29 crew members. They toured various parts of the ship, including the bridge, deck, engine control room, and the sleeping quarters and classrooms used by students during their sea training.
After the onboard tour, the vessel departed the dock, sailing past the Gwangandaegyo Bridge, Haeundae Dongbaek Island, and Cheongsapo, offering participants stunning views of Busan's coastline from the sea.
At the same time, 36 residents and 24 crew members boarded the 1,494-ton marine research vessel 'Naraho.' Participants experienced marine exploration equipment used in actual operations and learned about a marine education program jointly operated by seven universities nationwide.
Yang Mo, a resident of Yongho-dong who attended with family, said, "Seeing the Busan sea from a large ship was a unique experience, especially being able to view areas of the vessel and marine exploration equipment that are usually inaccessible to the public. It was fascinating and surprising."
The university stated, "In addition to this regular event, 194 citizens participated in a ship unveiling event held at Busan Port in June, and we continue to operate separate opening programs. We plan to expand community experience programs utilizing the marine infrastructure owned by the university in the future."
* This article has been translated by AI.
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