Seoul, South Korea | October 16, 2025 – HMM, South Korea’s flagship carrier and a global leader in shipping and logistics, has unveiled a landmark KRW 4 trillion (approx. USD 2.82 billion) newbuilding investment, placing orders for 12 LNG dual-fuelled containerships and two VLCCs (Very Large Crude Carriers). The move marks a strategic step in enhancing the company’s environmental performance, capacity, and fleet diversity.
The 13,000 TEU containerships will be sister ships and built by two of Korea’s premier shipbuilders—HD Hyundai Heavy Industries and Hanwha Ocean—reinforcing HMM’s commitment to cutting-edge, eco-efficient technologies.
Investing in a Cleaner, More Flexible Fleet
HMM’s latest order underscores its response to tightening international regulations under the IMO and the European Union, both of which are increasing pressure on global shipping to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. LNG, as one of the most commercially viable low-emission fuels available today, continues to dominate alternative fuel choices for newbuilds.
According to Clarksons Research, nearly 50% of newbuilding orders in 2024 involved alternative fuels, with LNG accounting for over 70% of those. HMM’s decision aligns with this trend while enhancing its fuel-flexibility and carbon reduction trajectory.
A Closer Look at the Order
The newbuilding program includes:
- 12 × 13,000 TEU LNG dual-fuelled container vessels
- Built by HD Hyundai Heavy Industries and Hanwha Ocean
- Sister ships designed for optimized operational efficiency and emissions compliance
- Designed to serve key Asia-Europe and Transpacific trade lanes
- 2 × VLCCs (Very Large Crude Carriers)
- Purpose-built for global crude oil transport
- Reinforces HMM’s diversified bulk fleet capabilities
This investment builds on HMM’s existing portfolio, which already includes methanol-powered container vessels and LNG-fuelled ships, reinforcing the company’s leadership in sustainable fleet transformation.
Strategic Vision: Fleet Readiness for 2030 and Beyond
This major order is a cornerstone of HMM’s 2030 mid- to long-term strategy, aimed at creating a flexible, future-ready fleet to navigate global market volatility, shifting trade patterns, and an increasingly carbon-constrained regulatory landscape.
By diversifying both fuel types and vessel classes, HMM is positioning itself to stay competitive across multiple shipping sectors while meeting its environmental, commercial, and operational targets.
About HMM
HMM is a globally recognized leader in integrated logistics and shipping services, offering a wide range of customized solutions for various cargo types, including container, bulk, and special cargo. The company operates a fleet of over 100 vessels, ensuring seamless and reliable shipping services across the globe. HMM’s commitment to sustainability, innovation, and customer-focused service positions it as a vital player in the future of the maritime industry.
Source HMM