HD Hyundai leader discusses multi-fuel future at Davos

HD Hyundai Executive Vice Chairman Chung Ki-sun discussed plans for a multi-fuel future and ways to optimize the building and operation of software-defined ships at the World Economic Forum Annual Meeting 2025 in Davos, Switzerland, the Korean shipbuilder said Thursday.

Attending the Davos Forum for the third consecutive year, Chung participated in the Oil & Gas Governors and Supply Chain & Transport Governors meetings that brought together CEOs from major firms such as A.P. Moller-Maersk, PSA International, Shell and TotalEnergies. Throughout the meetings, Chung introduced the future of Korea’s shipbuilding and discussed cooperation in the energy sector.

Chung also presented the blueprint for the future of shipyard, or FOS, project in collaboration with global big data company Palantir Technologies through a promotional video showcased at Palantir’s booth on the Davos Promenade.

HD Hyundai and Palantir teamed up to co-develop unmanned surface vehicles, or USVs, in April last year. The two plan to complete the development of a reconnaissance USV by 2026.

“For many decades now, HD Hyundai has been leading the world’s shipbuilding industry with the most innovative technologies,” said Chung in the video. “(We are) drawing on the latest innovation in AI, digital twins and so much more to transform our shipyards, unlocking a whole new level of productivity and safety.”

The FOS project refers to advanced shipyards that feature multiple digital technologies such as data, virtual and augmented reality, robotics, automation and AI.

HD Hyundai has been focusing on the digital transformation of its shipbuilding business through the FOS project since 2021. By investing in enhancing on-site productivity through cutting-edge technology, it aims to ultimately set up a shipyard that can operate autonomously with minimal human intervention.

The Korean shipbuilder plans to complete the FOS project by 2030, looking to achieve a 30 percent improvement in productivity and a 30 percent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions.

The Davos Forum gathers political, business and academic leaders from across the world to address pressing global challenges and find solutions.