[Alpha Biz= Reporter Kim Jisun] The first exploration drilling site for deep-sea oil and gas development in the East Sea has been designated as 'Blue Whale.' This project name refers to an area spanning the 8th and 6-1st basins where the highest concentrations of oil and gas deposits are estimated, although the specific location has not been disclosed for security reasons.
According to sources familiar with the matter on the 16th, the Korea National Oil Corporation (KNOC) recently selected '대왕고래' (Daewang Whale) as the preliminary site for drilling, following technical evaluations and expert validations. KNOC is currently in the process of preparing for drilling operations at this location and plans to formally request drilling approval from the Ministry of Trade, Industry, and Energy.
Previously, KNOC announced the discovery of seven promising structures in the 8th and 6-1st basins in the East Sea, where potential reserves of oil and gas are expected. These promising structures are managed under names like 'Blue Whale,' 'Squid,' and 'Pollack,' derived from marine life, for security reasons.
The '대왕고래' (Daewang Whale) area, believed to hold the largest reserves of oil and gas, is located in the northern part of the East Sea and extends longitudinally from east to west. The government and KNOC are planning to commence the first drilling operations in December, with preparations underway including the establishment of port facilities and the deployment of drilling vessels.
Alphabiz Reporter Kim Jisun(stockmk2020@alphabiz.co.kr)
