Im Seong-hwan, the Europe Regional Director of KR (Korean Register), highlighted the importance of the human element in the global shipping industry during an interview on June 5 at the Posidonia 2026 maritime exhibition in Athens, Greece. He identified 'people' as a key theme currently shaping the industry.
He noted, "While decarbonization and digitalization have been the focal points in the shipping sector, the conversation is now shifting to how we can secure and train talent, from crew members to CEOs. This has become a new competitive edge."
At Posidonia, discussions around AI, autonomous navigation, and digital technologies were prevalent, but there was a consensus that technology's role is ultimately to assist people.
Im stated, "When meeting with Greek shipowners, I often hear their strong interest in AI, but they emphasize that people should not be subservient to technology. Innovative technologies must evolve to support safe and rational human decision-making."
In response to these changes, KR is expanding its role beyond merely inspecting and certifying vessels. The organization is positioning itself as a 'technical partner' to help clients navigate increasing regulations and technological advancements.
Im explained, "Transitioning to a people-centered shipping industry means that our role in helping clients effectively utilize complex regulations and technologies is becoming increasingly important. KR is focused on supporting our clients in achieving both safety and competitiveness."
He pointed out that this year's Posidonia has highlighted heightened environmental regulations and geopolitical risks. "The implementation of the EU Emissions Trading System (ETS) and FuelEU Maritime regulations has increased the cost burden on shipping companies, compounded by the recent tensions in the Red Sea and the Middle East, creating a new normal of uncertainty in the industry. We now need to consider insurance costs, freight rates, crew safety, and logistics flows comprehensively," he said.
In light of these changes, KR is operating platforms such as 'PILOT' for decarbonization strategy development, 'POWER' for operational efficiency analysis, and 'GEARs' for environmental regulation compliance, all aimed at supporting shipping companies in regulatory compliance and operational optimization.
While acknowledging the competitive threat posed by China's presence in the global shipbuilding and shipping markets, Im believes South Korea also possesses significant competitiveness. He remarked, "China's strength lies not in individual companies but in the synergy of government, finance, and the shipping industry operating as a cohesive ecosystem. If we can establish a one-team system that connects shipbuilding, shipping, equipment, classification, and finance, we can secure competitiveness in future markets without lagging behind China."
Im also shared insights on next-generation ship technologies, stating, "We will see a coexistence of various fuels such as ammonia, methanol, biofuels, hydrogen, and nuclear power. Particularly for small modular reactor (SMR) propulsion vessels, South Korea has the technological capabilities in both shipbuilding and nuclear technology to be highly competitive."
However, he cautioned, "Since ships operate globally, the most critical aspect is not technology development but establishing regulations and standards that the international community can agree upon. The key challenge for commercialization lies in building international norms, not just technology."
Finally, he emphasized the need for close collaboration among domestic shipping, shipbuilding industries, and government agencies in this era of change and uncertainty. "We need a strong one-team cooperation. Moving forward, KR will focus on playing a connecting role between industries through strategic alliances with excellent overseas partners," he concluded.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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