K-Shipbuilding Accelerates Global Supply Chain Integration at 'Be-CON 2026'

South Korea's maritime and defense sectors are making significant strides in integrating into the global value chain, spurred by the 'Be-CON 2026' Global Maritime Technology and Defense Industry Conference and Export Consultation held in Busan. Co-hosted by Gabler Korea and KOTRA, the event focused on fostering connections and convergence within the industry.

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The change in K-shipbuilding's status has created opportunities to directly consult with global companies, which is very meaningful. We will make this year the first year for joint development with global partners and local network building.

The conference brought together over 200 participants from approximately 60 domestic and international companies and organizations. A key objective was to support South Korean maritime technology and defense equipment companies in accessing global projects and supply chains. During B2B consultation sessions, 21 innovative domestic companies engaged with Gabler Group, its affiliates, and seven other global partners to explore joint research and development opportunities and collaborations on international projects.

Discussions also centered on potential Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) for joint execution of global special vessel projects. International defense firms, including Bertin Environics, expressed interest in South Korean companies' capabilities in marine equipment procurement and joint R&D, particularly in advanced chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear (CBRN) detection systems for naval vessels.

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Korean companies have manufacturing competitiveness and technology commercialization capabilities, making them highly attractive partners in the global market. We will seek ways to jointly enter the global defense market by establishing strategic supply chains with domestic technology companies, and contribute to strengthening the domestic maritime industry ecosystem.

Gabler Group is also exploring strategic supply chain partnerships with South Korean small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in addition to its ongoing collaborations with major shipbuilders like Hanwha Ocean and HD Hyundai Heavy Industries on submarine MRO and next-generation submarine development. The event underscores a concerted effort to enhance the competitiveness of the K-shipbuilding industry and extend its reach to equipment suppliers, aiming for mutual growth in the global market.

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As the global shipbuilding and marine market diversifies towards special vessels and MRO, opportunities for overseas expansion for domestic companies with advanced technology are expanding. We will continue to discover global maritime and defense demands and support partnerships with domestic companies.