Hanwha Aerospace has signed a historic agreement with the Korea Aerospace Research Institute (KARI) to receive the complete technology for South Korea’s first homegrown space launch vehicle, KSLV-II, also known as Nuri. This marks the first time the full lifecycle technology of a launch vehicle has been transferred to the private sector in the country.
The agreement grants Hanwha Aerospace exclusive rights to manufacture and launch the KSLV-II until 2032, encompassing design, production, and launch operations. Developed between 2010 and 2023 with the involvement of over 300 private companies, the KSLV-II established South Korea as the world’s seventh nation to launch a satellite with its own technology.
Hanwha Aerospace will work in close partnership with KARI on future KSLV-II launches, ensuring thorough transfer of technical know-how and operational expertise. The company has reaffirmed its readiness for upcoming missions and its commitment to strengthening the launcher’s global commercial competitiveness.
“This technology transfer is a critical milestone for improving the nation’s space industry capabilities. It provides us with the foundation to enhance the KSLV-II’s technological capabilities and cost-effectiveness,” said Son Jae-il, President and CEO of Hanwha Aerospace.
This move is central to Hanwha’s broader strategy to build a full-spectrum space industry value chain. In collaboration with affiliates such as Hanwha Systems and Satrec Initiative, the company aims to integrate space transportation, satellite development, and satellite-based services to lead South Korea’s private-sector space ecosystem.
With this technology acquisition, Hanwha Aerospace strengthens its role in advancing the nation’s space ambitions and global standing. The company sees this milestone as a step towards becoming a key player in the emerging commercial space sector.
