HD Korea Shipbuilding & Offshore Engineering Co. (HD KSOE) has officially commenced its export activities for 2025 with the delivery of a liquefied natural gas (LNG) carrier, a significant achievement for the company. The LNG carrier, which has a capacity of 174,000 cubic meters, was ordered by an undisclosed Asian shipping company in June 2022. This vessel marks the beginning of HD KSOE's export initiatives for the year, underscoring its position in the global shipbuilding market.

The construction of this LNG carrier was completed over a span of two and a half years, with the work being carried out at the shipyard of its affiliate, HD Hyundai Samho Heavy Industries Co., located in Yeongam, South Jeolla Province. The long construction period reflects the complexity and scale of building such a massive vessel. HD KSOE is known for its expertise in delivering technologically advanced ships, and the LNG carrier is no exception. This delivery is part of the company’s broader efforts to maintain its leadership in the global shipbuilding industry.

In addition to the LNG carrier, other affiliates of HD KSOE are also poised to deliver vessels this week. HD Hyundai Heavy Industries Co., another affiliate, plans to deliver a large 16,000 twenty-foot equivalent unit (TEU) container ship. This large vessel will contribute significantly to the company’s delivery targets for the year. Similarly, HD Hyundai Mipo Dockyard Co., another member of the HD KSOE group, is scheduled to deliver a 2,800 TEU container ship. These deliveries highlight the diverse range of vessels being produced by HD KSOE and its affiliates, further solidifying its presence in the global shipping and shipbuilding industry.

Reflecting on the past year, HD KSOE had an outstanding performance in 2024, successfully delivering a total of 144 vessels. This strong performance underscores the company’s capabilities and expertise in fulfilling the global demand for various types of ships, from LNG carriers to container vessels. The company’s ambitious plans for 2025 include the delivery of 139 vessels, which demonstrates its continued strong performance and the trust that customers place in its ability to meet the ever-growing demands of the global shipping market.

HD KSOE is optimistic about its profitability in 2025, expecting a significant improvement compared to previous years. One of the key factors driving this expected growth is that many of the ships scheduled for delivery this year were ordered after 2022, a period when international ship prices began to rise substantially. The higher prices for ships ordered during this period are expected to positively impact the company’s financial results, enhancing its profitability. As the shipbuilding industry continues to evolve, HD KSOE is well-positioned to capitalize on the rising demand for advanced, high-quality vessels.

In conclusion, HD KSOE’s start to 2025 with the delivery of the LNG carrier reflects its strong leadership in the global shipbuilding sector. The company’s ability to meet delivery targets while adapting to market conditions is a testament to its resilience and expertise. As HD KSOE moves forward with its ambitious plans for the year, it is well-equipped to build on its success and continue its positive trajectory in the global shipbuilding market.