S-Oil Corp. begins operating out of its new office in Mapo, Seoul, on Monday.

This is the first time the company, which previously rented offices in the 63 City building in Yeouido, has set up headquarters in its own building since its establishment in 1976.

According to the company, the new building was designed to resemble the square-sailed boat used during the Joseon Dynasty. An intelligent building system allows the electrical, telecommunications and emergency systems to be managed through one combined system, the company said.

“The Mapo office, which offers an improved working environment, will act as the heart of S-Oil,” S-Oil CEO Ahmed Subaey said at the ceremony marking the opening of the new office.

Alongside the opening ceremony, the company signed an agreement with a non-governmental organization providing cultural services. Under the agreement the company will provide financial support to a variety of cultural organizations, and allow them to use the 300-seat hall in the new office to hold performances twice a month.

By Choi He-suk  (cheesuk@heraldcorp.com)