The launching ceremony of the Korea Port Equipment Industry Association (KOPEIA) took place on November 15 at Grand Hyatt Seoul, attended by approximately 100 officials, including Seung-Hwan Choi, Minister of Oceans and Fisheries.
Hong Moon-ki, CEO of HJSC, was appointed as the inaugural president of the association.
Comprising leaders in port crane, automated guided vehicles (AGVs), and port operation systems, KOPEIA aims to incubate the port equipment industry and advance related technologies. Notable members include HJSC, DOOSAN Enerbility, Hyundai Rotem, SEOHO Electric, HANMI TECHWIN, CyberLogitec, and TOTAL SOFT BANK.
The global port automation equipment market is experiencing a notable trend toward smart ports and automation. Projections suggest an annual growth rate of 6.4%, with the market expected to increase from US 3.8 billion dollars in 2019 to US 5.7 billion dollars by 2027. The Republic of Korea has outlined plans to invest KRW 2 trillion in port automation for Busan New Port, Gwangyang Port, New Port of Incheon, and Jinhae New Port.
KOPEIA, aligned with the current smart port and port automation trends, has outlined its objectives. These include analyzing industry trends and facilitating information sharing, developing and offering port smart and automation technologies, promoting international cooperation, and providing education to cultivate port equipment engineers. The organization plans to integrate these technologies into domestic ports and expand into overseas markets.
"We are positioned to act as a bridge between the government and businesses, fostering co-prosperity in the Korean port equipment industry," said President Hong Moon-ki. "Our commitment extends to international endeavors."
