Korean Register (KR) has launched a dedicated task force to support Korea’s Arctic shipping route initiative, which seeks to begin pilot operations and position Busan as a strategic maritime hub for the emerging Arctic navigation era.

The task force comprises specialists in four key areas: policy, regulation, technology, and R&D. It will focus on supporting government policy development, strengthening cooperation with domestic and international organizations, and contributing to the establishment of international regulatory frameworks.

Through this initiative, KR will underpin the government's plans to develop Busan Port as an Arctic route hub and support the enactment of the Arctic Shipping Route Special Act. Together with this effort, KR will proactively build technical foundations by developing rules and certification services for polar-class ships, while driving innovations in icebreaker design and construction.

Leveraging its expertise in ship survey and certification, KR aims to lead international standardization in polar navigation, while maximizing synergy with Busan's maritime industry ecosystem.

KIM Daeheon, Executive Vice President of KR’s R&D Division and Head of the Arctic Shipping Route Support TF, stated: "We will align with the government's Arctic route development policies and strengthen collaboration with the shipbuilding and shipping industries to secure technological leadership in polar navigation."