South Korea Invests 260 Billion WON to Boost Shipbuilding Competitiveness and Sustainability

The South Korean government is planning to invest 260 billion WON this year to boost the competitiveness of the country’s shipbuilding sector, marking a 40% increase from the previous year. The Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy is allocating funds towards environmentally friendly ships, digital transformation of shipbuilding processes, and autonomous ships. A portion of this investment will go towards new research and development projects, which will focus on technologies like wind-supported drive devices, electric drive ships, and ammonia-driven ships, as well as collaborative robots for process innovation.

The ministry will also support the development of ammonia-driven ships, which are considered a promising alternative to traditional vessels emitting greenhouse gases. Key materials such as ammonia fuel injection systems and exhaust gas treatment systems will be developed, along with the construction of the world’s first ammonia-free fuel supply ship. Additionally, support will be provided for the development of materials for medium and large electrically-driven vessels, including high-voltage systems and carbon dioxide capture devices.

Efforts to enhance digital transformation in shipbuilding processes are also underway, with initiatives such as high-speed laser cutting systems, autonomous welding robots, and collaborative robots for welding tasks. The ministry aims to increase productivity, improve security, and enhance process efficiency through the implementation of these technologies and systems. The investment plan has been reported by leading news portals in South Asia, highlighting the government’s commitment to strengthening the shipbuilding industry.

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