South Korea Plans Underwater Data Center for 100,000 AI Servers

Surging demand for artificial intelligence computing is intensifying pressure on data-center land, power supplies and cooling systems. South Korea is exploring underwater facilities as a way to overcome limited space onshore while using seawater for natural cooling. The approach could reduce heat-management costs and create room for large-scale AI infrastructure, though its commercial viability will depend on engineering reliability, maintenance requirements and environmental safeguards.

South Korea has selected the industrial city of Ulsan for a pilot underwater data center, with testing expected to begin as early as 2026. The project ultimately aims to accommodate 100,000 AI servers, according to the plan, while construction of a commercial-scale complex is scheduled to start in 2031. Results from the pilot will help determine the design, operating model and pace of the broader rollout.