Future of Korea's Ship Power ① Carbon-free

*This content was translated by AI.

While the engine independence of KF-21 fighter jets has recently shown unprecedented interest, the heart independence of "Joseon" is also drawing attention.

Korea Aerospace and Hanwha Aerospace believe that KF-21's engine localization is the true independence of fighter jets. The same goes for ships.

HD Hyundai and Hanwha Ocean, which are at the top of the global shipbuilding industry, have not yet achieved engine independence. Just as fighter engines are controlled by the U.S., Korean ships are also not out of Germany's control.

In the case of Hanwha Ocean, about 10% (estimated) of the main engine purchase cost (KRW 800 billion in 2025) is known to be paid as royalty to German MAN. HD Hyundai is also known to be paying (estimated) more than 120 billion won in royalties to MAN and others. It is not because of lack of technology, but because of the demands of the ship owners (use which engine from which company!). Shipowners have a strong tendency to favor a proven industry number one.

In the shipbuilding industry, interest in future power has recently increased, and the will to preempt future power and become independent is ripening. In addition, changes in market trends are forcing the transition of power sources.

Due to the strengthening of carbon emission regulations by the International Maritime Organization (IMO), the conversion of power sources for ships is becoming essential. The International Maritime Organization (IMO) aims to achieve "zero net carbon emissions" in the shipping industry by 2050, and calls for at least 20% reduction compared to 2008 by 2030 and at least 70% reduction by 2040.

In addition, IMO has implemented the Ship Carbon Concentration Index (CII) system from 2023 to evaluate carbon dioxide emissions from ships with more than 5,000 tons. Ships with E grade or D grade for three consecutive years will be restricted in operation. These regulatory environmental changes are affecting the overall ship ordering and operating structure.

Ammonia, methanol, and small module reactor (SMR) hydrogen are among the power sources that have recently attracted attention.

An official from HD Hyundai said, "We are developing technology and applying actual ships in the mid- to long-term research and development stages of power sources that are about to be commercialized in response to market changes."

An official from Hanwha Ocean also said, "We are continuously conducting research on future engines. In order to take a step forward in line with changes in the shipbuilding industry and maritime transportation, research is being conducted in various ways," he said.

<© STARNEWS. All rights reserved. No reproduction or redistribution allowed.>

*This content was translated by AI.