JEJU-DO < invest Korea

The Jeju Hanwha Space Center aerial view 

The construction of the Jeju Hanwha Space Center, envisioned as the "Birthplace of Satellites," has officially commenced. On April 29, Jeju Province and Hanwha Systems held a groundbreaking ceremony at the Hawon Techno Campus, located on the former site of Tamna University, marking the launch of the island's first advanced manufacturing plant. This development positions Jeju as a hub for satellite development and manufacturing, promising to attract related businesses and revitalize the local economy.

The Dawn of Jeju's Private Space Era

The Jeju Hanwha Space Center is slated for completion by late 2025, spanning a total floor area of 11,443 square meters (approximately 3,462 pyeong) with one underground and two above-ground floors. The facility will feature functional test labs for satellite development and assembly, control rooms, and office spaces. The production line will be equipped with testing equipment for thermal vacuum tests to verify satellite operability in space conditions and near-field range tests to evaluate antenna performance at close range. These installations will significantly reduce production times per stage. They can produce between four to eight satellites per month and plan to further enhance production capacity by introducing automated systems. Additionally, they aim to explore international export opportunities, accelerating the growth of the private space industry.

The pioneering entry of an advanced manufacturing company into Jeju will set the stage for attracting more related businesses. Currently, nine Hanwha Systems-related companies, among others, have expressed interest in setting up operations in Jeju, promising increased job opportunities and tax revenue. In response, Jeju plans to strengthen cooperation with space enterprises within and outside the province following the groundbreaking ceremony. Governor Oh Young-hun stated, "With the Hanwha Space Center, we will solidify our position as the 'optimal location for the private space industry' and expedite the achievement of tangible results. We will continue to take on bold challenges to establish ourselves as an innovative hub of the nation's private space industry." Meanwhile, private space startup Perigee Aerospace is set to launch its suborbital rocket "Blue Whale 0.4" from the waters near Yongsuri in late June. This follows their successful launch of a self-developed solid-fuel rocket in December. Ahead of another test launch, Jeju Province is prioritizing safety and will implement plans for environmental and regulatory improvements. Additionally, the second phase of CONTEC’s private space ground station project is scheduled for completion within the first half of the year, with administrative support focused on ensuring its timely conclusion.