ABS Joins Korean Initiative to Advance Standards for Next-Generation Ships and Shipyards

ABS has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with three Korean maritime organizations to advance the development of international standards for the next generation of smart ships and shipyards.

The Korea Marine Equipment Research Institute (KOMERI), the Korean Offshore & Shipbuilding Association (KOSHIPA) and the Research Institute of Medium & Small Shipbuilding (RIMS) have joined ABS in a five-year framework to develop global benchmarks for vessels and shipyards that take advantage of digital technology, smart manufacturing and advanced maritime systems. As part of a related agreement, ABS is already supporting the development of preliminary standards in two areas: digital production and traceability requirements for additively manufactured shipboard components and vent mast design for hydrogen-fueled ships.

“Next-generation shipbuilding is advancing rapidly, and the international standards that govern smart ships, smart shipyards and advanced manufacturing are still taking shape. ABS has deep, long-running relationships with Korea’s shipbuilding sector, and this agreement puts that experience to work in developing the standards the industry needs. It is a further reflection of why Korean yards look to ABS to help advance these technologies safely,” said Patrick Ryan, ABS Senior Vice President and Chief Technology Officer.

The MOU builds on an earlier agreement between ABS and the Korean Agency for Technology and Standards (KATS) to advance international standardization of smart ship and shipyard technologies, part of Korea’s national strategy to lead in high-value-added vessel development. The agreement also reflects the growing engagement of ABS with Korea’s maritime sector, including recent cooperation with Korean and U.S. institutions through the Korea-U.S. Shipbuilding Partnership Center.

“International standards are more than technical criteria — they are the gateway to market entry and a core element of global competitiveness. Working with ABS allows us to combine Korea’s standardization capabilities with ABS’ classification experience, and we expect this to produce practical results that lower the barriers for Korean equipment manufacturers entering overseas markets,” said Joo-Hyoung Choi, Managing Director of KOMERI.

As new technologies move from development into real application, ABS is committed to supporting the standards and safety frameworks the maritime industry needs. Learn more here.

Photo Caption (L to R): Jongbok Park, KOSHIPA Department Leader; Hyun-Buki Jeon, ABS Director, North Pacific Regional Offshore Business Development; Donghak Yang, KATS Deputy Director; Joo-Hyoung Choi, KOMERI Managing Director; and Juyeon Yoo, RIMS Director.

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