First shipbuilder on South Korea’s West Coast designated a defense contractor…Jeonnam anticipates marine defense industry growth
Jeonnam Province said the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy (MOTIE) has designated JK Heavy Industries, based in Mokpo, as a defense contractor for patrol vessels. This is the first time a shipbuilder on South Korea’s West Coast has received that designation.
Founded in 2014, JK Heavy Industries expanded by specializing in ship-block fabrication, ship repair and conversion, and construction of government vessels. The company posts about 30 billion KRW in annual sales (approximately 22.5 million USD). After roughly three years of preparation, MOTIE granted the defense-contractor status in February.
Jeonnam is using the recent opening of a Coast Guard maintenance depot in the Heosado area of Mokpo to help build a maritime defense industry ecosystem. The province is also promoting the development of MRO — maintenance, repair and overhaul — capabilities at local shipyards for patrol vessels.
“With Jeonnam companies entering the maritime defense market, we will actively support the growth of related industries,” said Kim Ki-hong, director of strategic industries for Jeonnam Province.
Jeonnam — Reporter Jo Jae-ho (samdady@viva100.com)
