But no: plans are underway for the architect-designed space to be completed by 2018 - just in time for the PyeongChang Winter Olympics. The show-stopping resort is being built by the sea, just five kilometres from the Olympic stadium facilities, and will house a staggering 946 rooms spread across 29,493 square metres.
An entire floor will be devoted to an open-air swimming pool that links the building's two main structures, with additional pools at ground level. The ground floor will also be home to restaurants and luxury stores.
Related story: Next gen mega yachts: is this the world's most OTT design?
The gravity-defying figure-8 design is the work of Seoul-based Architects Planning Korea, who devised the unusual shape to offer panoramic ocean views for the majority of the resort's rooms. Bizarrely, the design is loosely based on the ecological structure of plankton, an oceanic theme that will carry through to the hotel's proposed recreational and healing facilities.
Related story: Karl does K-Pop: a kaleidoscope of colour at Chanel Cruise 15/16
Related story: Fancy taking this for a spin? Ferrari puts the style into space travel
Related story: Raise the roof: festival camping goes first class in Melbourne
Related story: Look out, 007: Aston Martin sets sail with the launch of luxury yachts
