Splash247: South Korea moves to shape global autonomous ship rulebook

Published by Splash247

South Korea has launched a national taskforce aimed at ensuring its autonomous shipping technologies are reflected in the international rules now being drawn up at the IMO.

The Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries said the new Maritime Autonomous Surface Ship response council brings together 20 organisations spanning government, Korean Register, the Korea Research Institute of Ships and Ocean Engineering, shipowners, shipbuilders, academia and other research bodies.

The move comes after the IMO adopted its first non-mandatory MASS Code in May, providing a framework for remotely operated and autonomous commercial ships. The organisation is targeting adoption of a mandatory code by July 2030, with entry into force expected in 2032.

Seoul wants to do more than simply prepare domestic companies for the new regime. The taskforce will identify Korean research and development work that could be turned into formal IMO proposals, coordinate positions at international meetings and share regulatory developments with domestic industry.

South Korea has also just started a six-year AI full-autonomous-ship development programme running from 2026 to 2032, underlining the strategic importance Seoul is placing on the technology.

“Autonomous ship international standards will have a major impact on Korea’s shipping and shipbuilding industries,” said Jeong Do-hyun, director general for maritime safety policy at the ministry. He said it was important that Korean technology and operational experience were actively reflected in the rules.