On July 14, Korean Register (KR) successfully convened the 20th KR European Committee (KREC) meeting in London, U.K, bringing together key representatives from international maritime organizations and prominent European shipping companies to discuss pressing industry challenges and KR’s latest technological advancements.

Since its establishment in 2004, the KREC has served as an annual platform for dialogue with European industry leaders, addressing critical maritime issues and sharing KR’s research and development outcomes. The committee includes representatives from major international organizations such as the Oil Companies International Marine Forum (OCIMF), INTERTANKO, the International Chamber of Shipping (ICS), BIMCO, INTERCARGO, and AXA XL, alongside KR’s European customers including Navig8 Group, Bernard Schulte, Songa Ship Management, and Unity Ship Management.

The 20th KREC focused on strategies to respond to strengthened decarbonization regulations, including the IMO’s mid-term measures, the EU Emissions Trading System (ETS), and FuelEU Maritime. KR presented its technical efforts and R&D achievement, while also addressing industry concerns on recent fire incidents involving EVs on Ro-Ro vessels and hazardous cargo on containerships. KR shared updates from the International Association of Classification Societies (IACS), offering insights into evolving regulatory trends.

In addition, the committee also delved into several cutting-edge initiatives, including the application of shore power systems for tankers and terminals, progress on OCIMF’s Ship Inspection Report Programme (SIRE) 2.0, and developments in carbon capture and storage technologies.

LEE Hyungchul, Chairman & CEO of KR, remarked, “As IMO and EU decarbonization regulations continue to tighten, this year’s KREC was a valuable moment to exchange perspectives with global industry leaders. KR will actively reflect these discussions in our future initiatives, further advancing technology and services to support a sustainable maritime future.”