Operator News
South Korea – Mohegan Inspire Entertainment Resort opens international visitor-only casino
By Phil - 5 February 2024
Mohegan Inspire Entertainment Resort, a beacon of luxury and innovation in the heart of Yeongjong Island, has now opened the most advanced gaming facility in the country, INSPIRE Casino.
The Korean Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism granted Mohegan INSPIRE the license for the international visitor-only casino business on 23 January, marking a significant milestone in Korea’s gaming sector. This license, the first awarded in 19 years, highlights a progressive step under the Special Act on the Designation and Management of Free Economic Zones. Since being named the resort complex project operator in March 2016, Mohegan INSPIRE has invested approximately $1.6 billion to complete the first development phase in a venture that has been spearheaded by the Mohegan Tribe.
“I am thrilled that Mohegan INSPIRE has successfully carried out this phase of development over the past seven years and has obtained a permit for an international visitor-only casino business license,” said Chen Si, President of Mohegan INSPIRE. “Since the soft opening, we have seen visitors from all over experience and enjoy memorable performances at our Arena, the fantastic digital show in Aurora and the serene and luxurious escape at our 3-tower hotel. We will continue to play a leading role in supporting and growing the local economy while offering diverse amenities and unparalleled experiences to first-time and returning guests, international tourists, K-pop and K-culture fans and casino visitors.”
INSPIRE Casino is set to be the country’s largest international visitor-only casino, boasting 150 gaming tables, 390 slot machines and a modern 160-seat electronic table games (ETG) stadium across two floors. The casino is constructed to accommodate various guests, from mass markets to VIPs, offering an exclusive environment including fine dining such as original Cantonese cuisine, INSPIRE Pavilion and a VIP floor. Strategically located beside Incheon International Airport, Mohegan INSPIRE benefits from this prime location that is not only adjacent to one of Asia’s major air travel hubs but also within a convenient four-hour flight radius from key metropolitan cities, including Tokyo, Osaka, Taiwan, Beijing, Shanghai, Hong Kong and Southeast Asia.
“As we unveil the INSPIRE Casino, we’re continuing to pioneer a new era of international hospitality,” said Ray Pineault, CEO of Mohegan. “This ambitious project is a testament to Mohegan’s commitment to excellence, marking a major milestone in our growth as a preeminent owner and developer of integrated entertainment resorts. We take immense pride in enriching the vibrant landscape of Incheon, stimulating economic development and establishing new paradigms in the worldwide entertainment sector.”
Following the grand opening, Mohegan INSPIRE plans to fast-track its growth by progressively opening the remainder of the resort facilities by mid-2024. This marks a significant step in solidifying its status as a new-generation resort, welcoming guests of all backgrounds to indulge in an inspiring world where unforgettable moments meet diverse cultures.
