The Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority (MTGA), operator of Mohegan Sun casinos in the USA, along with construction firm KCC Corporation and airport operator Incheon International Airport Corp (IIAC), has been granted planning permission for the construction of an integrated leisure resort at Incheon International Airport in South Korea.
The multi-phase development named Project Inspire is expected to include a five-star luxury hotel with 1,350 rooms; more than 20 food and beverage outlets; a 215,000ft² retail area; the largest entertainment arena in South Korea with the capacity to seat 15,000; a Paramount Studios-themed amusement park; an Eco Adventure Park featuring indoor rock climbing, zip lining, an indoor rainforest and an archaeology experience; a 215,000ft² casino with 250 tables and 1,500 slot machines; and an adjacent private air terminal (FBO). The first phase of the project will cost approximately US$1.6bn with a total investment of US$5bn.
Bobby Soper, president of MTGA, said, “We are pleased with the Korean government’s decision to award us the opportunity to help fulfill their vision of driving economic development by growing tourism, creating jobs, and showcasing Korean culture via the integrated resort.”
Chung Il-young, CEO of IIAC, said, “We deeply appreciate the careful review that the Korean government has conducted on this bold new initiative for tourism in Korea. Its selection of the Inspire project is wonderful news for the Incheon region and will serve as a catalyst for growth in the airport development zone for years to come.”