How is HD Hyundai Strengthening S. Korea-US Shipbuilding Ties?
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Synopsis
In a pivotal move for maritime collaboration, HD Hyundai's chairman announced commitments to enhance South Korea's partnership with the U.S. at the APEC Summit. The company aims to revitalize shipbuilding industries through strategic collaborations and innovative technologies, urging both nations towards a united maritime future. Discover the details of this impactful initiative.
Key Takeaways
- HD Hyundai is committed to enhancing U.S.-South Korea shipbuilding cooperation.
- Chairman Chung Ki-sun emphasizes participation in U.S. maritime policies.
- The company has plans for U.S. market entry and local acquisitions.
- HD Hyundai has partnered with HII to jointly build naval vessels.
- Innovations in robotics and AI are central to future collaborations.
Seoul, Oct 27 (NationPress) HD Hyundai Co, the foremost shipbuilding conglomerate in South Korea, is dedicated to strengthening the collaboration between Seoul and Washington with an objective to rejuvenate the U.S. naval and commercial shipbuilding sectors, according to its chairman on Monday.
"We are determined to actively engage in the U.S.'s new maritime vision and policies, especially the initiatives aimed at maritime supremacy and prosperity, including the development of a next-generation fleet led by the U.S. Navy and the revitalization of shipyards," stated Chairman Chung Ki-sun during a keynote address at the Future Tech Forum in Gyeongju, located approximately 275 kilometers southeast of Seoul, the venue for this week's Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) CEO Summit.
This forum was a component of an official business event associated with the APEC gathering in South Korea, as reported by Yonhap news agency.
His statement highlighted South Korea-U.S. collaboration in shipbuilding, epitomized by the slogan Make American Shipbuilding Great Again (MASGA), during his inaugural official appearance as chairman of HD Hyundai following his promotion from senior vice chairman on Oct. 17.
Currently, HD Hyundai is exploring options to penetrate the U.S. market, including equity investments and potential acquisitions of local shipyards.
In a bid to enhance bilateral cooperation in shipbuilding, the company established a strategic partnership agreement in April with Huntington Ingalls Industries (HII), the largest defense shipbuilder in the U.S., to collaborate on technology and jointly construct naval vessels.
"We are poised to embark on the journey of innovation as a committed partner in ushering in America's new maritime renaissance," Chung asserted. "We aspire to advance together for the security and growth of both nations."
Meanwhile, around 600 officials from government, military, and the shipbuilding industry, including representatives from HII and Anduril Industries Inc., participated in the tech forum arranged by HD Hyundai, which aims to foster global business partnerships.
HD Hyundai announced its intention to expedite cooperation with U.S. defense firm Anduril to develop unmanned surface vessels (USVs). The two companies signed a memorandum of agreement (MOA) regarding this project in August.
In collaboration with HII, the company intends to broaden joint research and development and technology exchanges in advanced sectors, such as robotics and artificial intelligence (AI), and pursue cooperation in establishing a comprehensive lifecycle support and maintenance system for naval assets.
Point of View
It is evident that the collaboration between HD Hyundai and U.S. firms represents a significant step in enhancing maritime capabilities. This partnership not only benefits South Korea and the U.S. but also positions both nations as leaders in global shipbuilding innovation. The focus on technology and innovation is commendable and aligns with the current trends in the defense industry.
NationPress
29/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is HD Hyundai's goal regarding U.S. shipbuilding?
HD Hyundai aims to strengthen collaboration with the U.S. to rejuvenate both naval and commercial shipbuilding industries.
What partnerships has HD Hyundai established?
The company has signed a strategic partnership agreement with Huntington Ingalls Industries and is cooperating with Anduril Industries to develop unmanned surface vessels.
