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 has been recognized for proving its overseas infrastructure investment capabilities as the only domestic financial institution to serve as the lead arranger.
On June 4, KB Kookmin Bank announced the successful co-lead of the Delfin floating LNG (FLNG) development project in the United States.
The financing involved major global banks such as MUFG and CITI as co-arrangers. Among domestic financial institutions, KB Kookmin Bank was the sole lead arranger. The total syndication size is approximately 4 trillion won (about $26.76 billion), with KB Kookmin Bank arranging and participating in about 240 billion won (approximately $160 million).
The Delfin FLNG is 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 also involves key participation from the South Korean shipbuilding industry. Samsung Heavy Industries has secured a contract to build the FLNG facility from Delfin Midstream in the U.S. This collaboration between South Korean shipbuilding and finance in the strategic energy infrastructure development of the U.S. symbolizes the cooperation in strategic industries and support for investment in the U.S.
Lee Won-jong, Vice President of KB Kookmin Bank's CIB Sales Group, stated, "The Delfin project is a symbolic deal that elevates trade, energy, and shipbuilding cooperation between 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, thereby contributing to enhancing national competitiveness."
* This article has been translated by AI.
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