The technology behind South Korea’s KSLV-II “Nuri” space rocket has been transferred to Hanwha Aerospace – the first time in South Korea’s history that the complete system has been handed over to a private company.
Hanwha Aerospace signed a landmark agreement with the Korea Aerospace Research Institute (KARI) for the full transfer of the KSLV-II program, including rocket design, manufacturing, and launch operations.
This transfer is not only a recognition of Hanwha’s capabilities – it reflects the highest level of institutional trust. Hanwha, which provides key defense systems for Poland (such as the K9 and Homar-K) and works closely with the Polish defense industry, has been selected as the strategic partner responsible for the future of Korea’s space program.
The KSLV-II is the result of 14 years of development (2010–2023), involving over 300 institutions. Its successful launch made South Korea the seventh country in the world capable of placing satellites in orbit using entirely domestic technology.
Hanwha Aerospace will continue cooperating closely with KARI on future launches, ensuring operational knowledge transfer and development. The agreement lays the foundation for a strong and integrated space ecosystem, where Hanwha – together with Hanwha Systems and Satrec Initiative – will combine space transportation, satellite manufacturing, and mission operations capabilities.
