South Korea's Hydrogen Push for Steelmaking Innovation
Key Ideas
  • South Korea aims to develop hydrogen-based steelmaking technology by 2030 to enhance the global competitiveness of its steel industry and achieve carbon neutrality.
  • The Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy plans to invest $600 million over the next five years to develop a demonstration technology for hydrogen-based steelmaking in collaboration with the private sector.
  • The project will focus on producing 300,000 tons of hydrogen reduced steel and molten iron, utilizing the FINEX method, a more eco-friendly steelmaking process that can significantly reduce carbon emissions.
  • Government efforts also extend to advancing quantum technology to secure technological supremacy and drive economic growth, as the global quantum technology market is projected to grow significantly by 2033.
South Korea has announced its ambitious plans to develop hydrogen-based steelmaking technology by 2030 to support the local steel industry in enhancing its global competitiveness and achieving carbon neutrality. The Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy is set to invest $600 million over the next five years to develop a demonstration technology for hydrogen-based steelmaking in partnership with the private sector. This technology, using hydrogen gas instead of coal to smelt iron ore, could help steelmakers reduce carbon emissions by over 95% compared to traditional methods. The project aims to construct a facility capable of producing 300,000 tons of hydrogen reduced steel and molten iron, implementing the hydrogen-based steelmaking technology on electric arc furnaces owned by small and medium-sized companies. Leveraging the FINEX method, known for its eco-friendliness by directly using iron ore fines and non-coking coal, South Korea's steel industry seeks to lead in environmental sustainability. Furthermore, the government is actively engaging in the development of quantum technology to secure technological supremacy and drive economic growth. With the global quantum technology market expected to grow significantly to $24.6 billion by 2033, South Korea views quantum science and technology as a strategic field with vast potential for cross-sector impact. By convening consultative meetings with major stakeholders, including research institutions and leading companies in the quantum technology sector, the government aims to position itself at the forefront of this emerging technology landscape.
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