Im Seong-hwan, Head of KR (Korean Register) Europe Region, emphasized the importance of people in the global shipping industry during a meeting on June 5 in Athens, Greece, at the Posidonia 2026 maritime expo.
He noted, "While decarbonization and digitalization have been the main topics in the shipping sector, the focus is now shifting to how we can secure and train talent, from crew members to CEOs, as a new competitive advantage."
At Posidonia, AI, autonomous navigation, and digital technologies were prominent topics, but there is a growing consensus that the role of technology is to assist people.
"When meeting with Greek shipowners, I often hear a strong interest in AI, but they stress that humans should not become subordinate to technology," he said. "Innovative technologies should ultimately evolve to support safe and rational human judgment."
KR is adapting to these changes by expanding its role beyond merely inspecting and certifying vessels. It is positioning itself as a 'technology partner' to help clients navigate increasing regulations and technological changes.
Im stated, "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 clients in achieving both safety and competitiveness."
He highlighted the intensified environmental regulations and geopolitical risks that have emerged at this year's Posidonia. "The implementation of the EU Emissions Trading System (ETS) and the FuelEU Maritime regulation has increased the cost burden on shipping companies, compounded by tensions in the Red Sea and the Middle East, making uncertainty the new normal in the shipping industry," he explained. "We now need to consider insurance costs, freight rates, crew safety, and logistics flows comprehensively."
In response to these changes, KR operates platforms such as the decarbonization strategy platform 'PILOT', the operational efficiency analysis platform 'POWER', and the environmental regulation compliance platform 'GEARs' to support shipping companies in regulatory compliance and operational optimization.
While acknowledging the competitive threat posed by China's presence in the global shipbuilding and shipping market, Im believes South Korea has sufficient competitiveness. He remarked, "China's strength comes not from individual companies but from the government, finance, and shipping industry operating as a cohesive ecosystem. If we establish a one-team system connecting shipbuilding, shipping, equipment, classification, and finance, we can secure competitiveness in future markets that rivals China."
Im also shared his outlook on next-generation vessel technologies, stating, "We will see a coexistence of various fuels such as ammonia, methanol, biofuels, hydrogen, and nuclear power. In particular, for small modular reactor (SMR) powered vessels, South Korea possesses both shipbuilding and nuclear technology, giving us a strong competitive edge."
However, he cautioned that since ships operate globally, establishing international regulations and standards is more critical than developing technology. "The key challenge for commercialization lies in building international norms rather than technology itself," he said.
Finally, he stressed the need for close one-team collaboration among domestic shipping, shipbuilding industries, and government agencies in this era of change and uncertainty. "KR will focus on playing a connecting role between industries through strategic alliances with excellent overseas partners," he concluded.
[This article was supported by the Sea's Gift Foundation and the Korean Maritime Journalists Association.]
* This article has been translated by AI.
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