Korea International Circuit was built near Yeongam as a planned hybrid of permanent track and future waterfront city streets. Construction ran to the eve of its 2010 debut, the surrounding development never materialised and Formula 1 left after four races.
The inaugural Grand Prix started behind the safety car in torrential rain and ran into darkness. Sebastian Vettel retired from the lead with engine failure, allowing Fernando Alonso to win and take the championship lead.
Across 5.615 km, its 18 corners create a distinct rhythm between braking, precision and acceleration. As a permanent racing circuit, it asks drivers and teams to adapt setup, tyre management and race strategy to the venue's particular constraints, while its anti-clockwise direction shapes the sequence of its most demanding sectors.
