- Development of key port equipment components and technologies to build a smart port centered on domestic technology

The Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries (MOF; Minister Kang Do-hyung) announced that it would be launching a full-scale research and development project to develop core components and technologies for automated port equipment to strengthen the competitiveness of the domestic port technology industry.

The smart transformation of ports is being accelerated worldwide to secure supply chain stability and logistics competitiveness. In Korea, smart port construction began in earnest with the opening of the Fully Automated Terminal* in Busan New Port in April last year, and it is being expanded by fostering related technology industries.

* A port where the entire logistics process—from unloading cargo from ships to land to movement within the port, storage, and export out of the port—is automated

Accordingly, MOF will invest KRW 31 billion over a 4-year period starting this year to develop core components and system technologies for automated port equipment for the construction of a “Korean-style smart port” by introducing port equipment centered on domestic technology.

This project will support the localization of automated unloading and autonomous transport systems by developing core components and autonomous driving technology. It will also develop control/operation systems for autonomous transport systems, aiming to introduce them to Korean smart ports through technology development and verification.

“The smart port technology industry is crucial for the sustainable development and competitiveness of the port industry. We will fully support the fostering of the industry and development of technologies to ensure the stable establishment and expansion of smart ports in Korea,” Minister Kang Do-hyung said.