Seoul leans into AI and ammonia with 320 billion won
In South Korea, the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy said on February 24 it will invest ₩320 billion in shipbuilding research and development in 2026, a 23.7% increase from last year, launching 34 new projects spanning green propulsion, AI shipyards and competitiveness support for small and mid sized builders.
The push follows exports of ₩42.6 trillion in 2025, the highest level in eight years, with global order share rising to 20.2% and Korean yards regaining the top position in high value segments such as large LNG carriers. Officials nonetheless flagged structural labor shortages, concentration in a narrow range of vessel types and weaker supplier ecosystems beyond the major yards as unresolved risks.
Of the ₩320 billion total, ₩187.3 billion is earmarked for environmentally oriented vessels, ₩94.9 billion for AI and digital shipyard systems, and ₩37.8 billion for AI-enabled autonomous navigation. Flagship efforts include a 15MW ammonia gas turbine combustor and fuel supply system, hydrogen engine and fuel cell hybrid propulsion with sea trials, onboard CO₂ capture systems with land and marine demonstration, and electric propulsion packages for mid to large sized ships.
Additional programs back Arctic icebreaker core technologies, an AI navigation data platform drawing on trials with more than 30 domestic vessels, automated block handling and logistics systems, and hybrid, remotely controlled tugboats aimed at strengthening smaller yards. Applications are open through March 25 via the IRIS portal.
Category: Sustainable Marine Fuels
