KB Kookmin Bank is expanding its presence in the global project finance market by participating in the funding of U.S. energy infrastructure projects. It is the only domestic financial institution to serve as a lead arranger, demonstrating its capabilities in overseas infrastructure investment.
On June 4, KB Kookmin Bank announced the successful co-arrangement of financing for the Delfin floating LNG (FLNG) development project in the United States.
Global banks such as MUFG and CITI also participated as co-arrangers. Among domestic financial institutions, KB Kookmin Bank was the sole lead arranger. The total syndication amounts to approximately 4 trillion won (about $26.76 billion), with KB Kookmin Bank contributing around 240 billion won (approximately $160 million).
The Delfin FLNG project marks the first commercial floating liquefied natural gas facility being developed offshore in the United States. It is gaining attention as next-generation energy infrastructure due to its shorter construction period and lower investment risks compared to traditional land-based LNG terminals.
The project involves key participation from the South Korean shipbuilding industry. Samsung Heavy Industries has secured a contract for the construction of the FLNG facility at Delfin Midstream in the U.S. This collaboration between South Korean shipbuilding and finance in the development of strategic energy infrastructure in the U.S. symbolizes the strengthening of South Korea-U.S. industrial cooperation and support for investment in the U.S.
Lee Won-jong, Deputy Head of the CIB Sales Group at KB Kookmin Bank, stated, "The Delfin project is a symbolic transaction that elevates trade, energy, and shipbuilding cooperation between South Korea and the United States. We will continue to actively support the global expansion of Korean industries based on our expertise in local market assessments and collaboration with global financial institutions."
* This article has been translated by AI.
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