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Korea's Next-Gen Rocket Reaches 30% Development

October 27, 2026

2 min read

Key Takeaways

Korea's next-gen rocket is 30% complete.
Hanwha IP dispute has been resolved.
Launcher will be methane-based and reusable.
First launch scheduled for 2031.

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Strategic Implications

Korea's next-gen rocket development may indicate a significant step towards establishing the country as a major player in the global space industry. The resolution of the Hanwha IP dispute suggests that the project is back on track, which could lead to the development of a competitive reusable launch vehicle. However, the lack of actual recovery verification by 2032 may indicate that the project's goals are still ambitious and dependent on follow-up developments.

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What Happened

Hanwha IP Dispute Resolved, Paving Way For Methane-Based Reusable Launcher

South Korea’s next-generation launch vehicle has reached 30% completion, with the resolution of an intellectual property dispute with Hanwha Aerospace paving the way for the development of a methane-based reusable launcher. The project aims to secure independent space exploration capabilities by 2032, with the first launch scheduled for 2031. The Korea Aerospace Research Institute is leading the development, with Hanwha Aerospace focusing on manufacturing. The project’s success may depend on follow-up developments and the demonstration of reusability technology. This development was reported by DongA Science.

Source | Originally Published: October 27, 2026

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