The five linked glass domes are designed to symbolize the vein structure of a leaf.
The Polar biome houses a specialized habitat for Gentoo and Chinstrap penguins.
The Desert zone contains over 400 species of cacti and succulents.
The Mediterranean hall features vegetation specifically sourced from the Mediterranean, Cape Town, and California regions.
The facility incorporates sophisticated geothermal heating and cooling systems to maintain diverse microclimates.
A dedicated 'Ant Room' provides a real-time view into the complex tunnel systems of leaf-cutter ants.
The tropical dome includes a three-story indoor waterfall and an elevated walkway to view the canopy layer.
The building's construction was designed to maximize natural light diffusion while reducing heat gain in summer.
The Ecorium is the central exhibition facility of the National Institute of Ecology in Seocheon, South Korea, housed within a landmark series of interconnected glass biomes. It functions as a climate-controlled research center simulating diverse ecosystems, ranging from tropical rainforests to polar environments. The architectural design features a curvilinear, leaf-inspired structure that minimizes energy consumption through geothermal and solar systems. Visitors walk through distinct zones including the Tropical, Desert, Mediterranean, Temperate, and Polar biomes. Each zone maintains authentic temperature, humidity, and atmospheric conditions to support native flora and fauna. The facility serves both as a public educational site and an active ecological research hub.
The elevated observation platform inside the Tropical biome looking out toward the glass ceiling structure.
Wear layers, as the transition between the tropical and polar biomes involves extreme temperature fluctuations.
Visit the Polar biome during the penguin feeding demonstrations to see the animals at their most active.
Check the outdoor nature trails connected to the Ecorium for bird-watching opportunities in the surrounding wetlands.
Do not attempt to walk between the biomes without proper attire for climate changes; avoid rushing through the zones as the exhibits require time for observation.
Closed every Monday for facility maintenance.
Maintain a quiet volume near the animal enclosures; do not use flash photography in the Polar zone.
