Top 10 Most Costly Construction Projects Ever
7. The Lotte World Tower
Place of Residence: South Korea
Completed Cost: $3.4 Billion
Year Completed: 2016
The Lotte World Tower, completed in 2016, is a remarkable feat of engineering and design, standing at an impressive 1,823 feet tall. With 123 stories, it is the tallest building on the Korean Peninsula and ranks as the fifth-tallest structure in the world.
This iconic skyscraper houses a mix of luxury hotels, retail spaces, residential apartments, and observation decks that offer breathtaking views of Seoul and beyond. Its sleek design and modern architecture have made it a symbol of South Korea's rapid urban development and innovation.
In conclusion, the Lotte World Tower is not only a landmark in Seoul but also a testament to the country’s ambition and architectural prowess. Its completion marked a significant milestone in the global skyline, attracting tourists and business alike.

Photo Credit: Tower Lotte World ©Shutterstock / ©catcher_3.3
The Lotte World Tower was commissioned by the Lotte Group and designed by the renowned American architectural firm Kohn Pedersen Fox. The vision was to create a building that would be visually stunning, even on cloudy days, and to rise above the clouds, symbolizing ambition and progress.
The project took an impressive thirteen years of design work, followed by an additional seven years of construction, culminating in its completion. The tower officially opened to the public in 2016, with its observatory welcoming visitors in 2017. Since then, it has attracted over 50 million visitors annually, offering breathtaking views of Seoul and beyond.
In conclusion, the Lotte World Tower stands not only as a marvel of modern architecture but also as a significant cultural and tourist destination. Its successful blend of design, functionality, and visitor experience underscores South Korea's status as a leader in innovative urban development.