South Korea, United States to 'strengthen' shipbuilding ties

In what is described as a “historic moment”, the South Korean shipbuilding industry has held talks with the United States Trade Representative (USTR) to explore opportunities for vessel construction cooperation between the two nations.

As disclosed, Chung Kisun, Executive Vice Chairman of HD Hyundai, met up with USTR Ambassador Jamieson Greer on May 16, seeking to find the “most favorable” pathways for the United States and South Korea to collaborate amid tumultuous geopolitical waters.

The meeting, which took place during the US delegation’s official visit to the East Asian nation for a meeting of trade ministers from the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) grouping, is reportedly the first time that the two sides have held such discussions.

“We deeply appreciate the United States’ commitment to rebuilding its shipbuilding industry. HD Hyundai stands fully prepared and willing to contribute wherever our capabilities are needed,”Chung highlighted.

According to the shipbuilding heavyweight, which is said to construct around 50 vessels per year, discussions were held regarding the ongoing partnership between HD Hyundai and US defense shipbuilder Huntington Ingalls, part of Huntington Ingalls Industries (HII), with proposals to further the