Aqua Planet Ilsan

Overview

Aqua Planet Ilsan is a unique four-story cultural complex that blends a large-scale aquarium with an indoor zoo. It features over 36,000 marine and land creatures from 325 different species. As a landmark of Goyang's Hallyu World, it offers an immersive "oasis in the city" experience where visitors can explore deep-sea mysteries and jungle wildlife all under one roof.

History

Opened in April 2014, Aqua Planet Ilsan was designed to be four times larger than the famous 63 Sea World in Seoul. It was the first in Korea to integrate an "Animal Farm" (The Jungle) and "Sky Farm" into a traditional aquarium layout. Since its opening, it has become a major educational site, frequently hosting ecological presentations and advanced conservation programs for endangered species like the green sea turtle.

Things to see

• **Deep Blue Ocean**: A massive 2,000-ton main tank where sharks, rays, and schools of fish swim together. It also serves as the stage for the captivating "Aqua Fantasy" magic and synchronized swimming shows.

• **The Jungle**: An indoor forest habitat home to ring-tailed lemurs, parrots, and even sloths, allowing for a 360-degree viewing of land animals.

• **Underwater Tunnel**: A panoramic glass tunnel that makes you feel as though you are taking a stroll on the ocean floor, surrounded by aquatic giants.

• **Sky Farm**: An outdoor rooftop zoo located on the 5th floor where you can meet friendly farm animals like sheep, goats, and ponies with a view of the city.

Things to do

• **Aqua-X Boat**: A transparent-bottom boat ride over the main tank that provides a thrilling perspective of the marine life swimming directly beneath your feet.

• **Ecological Presentations**: Watch daily feeding sessions for harbor seals and sea lions at the "Ocean Arena," where trainers share fascinating facts about their behavior.

• **Animal Feeding Experience**: Purchase specialized feed at the Sky Farm to interact closely with the farm animals in a safe, outdoor environment.

• **The Zoo Special Exhibition**: Visit the themed exhibition halls that feature diverse insect specimens and reptiles, offering a comprehensive look at biodiversity.