Hanwha Ocean's shipyard, acquired last year in the United States, is promoting Korean rotational work for its workers. This is aimed at strengthening the shipbuilding capabilities by allowing workers to gain experience in high-value shipbuilding. The shipyard aims to build liquefied natural gas (LNG) carriers beyond container ships.
According to the shipbuilding industry on the 3rd, the shipyard is pursuing plans for its workers to be dispatched to Hanwha Ocean's business sites in Korea for up to one year. Currently, around 50 Korean experts are dispatched to the United States to share technology and process know-how. This is to ensure they gain experience in schedule management at docks and block processes in Korea, a shipbuilding advanced country.
Hanwha Ocean is introducing smart yards to enhance the aging shipbuilding capabilities of the shipyard. The aim is to digitize ship component information and use a satellite positioning system (GPS) attached to components to monitor work status in real-time from a central control room. The company is also expanding the introduction of robotic automation, including automated welding, and has equipped training facilities for painting using augmented reality (VR) technology to improve workers' skill levels.
Hanwha Ocean plans to enhance the capabilities of the shipyard and convert its dock into a facility for berthing boats, increasing its annual production from just 1.5 vessels to over 8 vessels. The company aims to build LNG carriers in addition to the tankers and container ships it has primarily constructed.
David Kim, the chief executive officer of the shipyard, noted at the Marine Money Week 2025 event held in the United States last month, "We are considering the construction of other types of vessels that are not typically allowed under the Jones Act. We are seeking opportunities related to LNG carriers." He added, "I believe there will be opportunities to build a new industry focused on LNG carrier construction in the U.S."
The United States has been accelerating LNG exports since the election of President Donald Trump. According to Clarkson Securities, a shipbuilding and shipping analysis firm, the global demand for LNG carriers is estimated to reach 126 vessels by 2029, with the overall market size projected to hit 40 trillion won.