Kencoa Aerospace Shares 'K-UAM' Future Vision... "Fastest Demonstration Based on Domestic Aircraft"

[Asia Economy Reporter Jang Hyowon] Kenko Aerospace announced on the 19th at the ‘UAM TEAM KOREA Strategy Forum’ that it has presented a long-term vision regarding business directions, including the promotion of demonstration projects for the early commercialization of UAM.

As the development of domestically produced aircraft that do not rely on foreign imports is urgently needed to build the K-UAM ecosystem, Kenko’s role, which possesses core technologies for aircraft development and mass production, is expected to be crucial. Kenko is rapidly advancing the UAM business based on a 100% domestically developed vertical take-off and landing eVTOL aircraft.

Kenko is collaborating with local governments nationwide, including Jeju Island, Incheon, and Gangwon Province, to promote special-purpose UAM-linked projects ranging from logistics to tourism. Centered on Incheon, which has many islands, plans are underway to establish UAM infrastructure usable for logistics and parcel delivery in the West Coast region. Feasibility studies have been completed for nearby areas such as Seongsan Ilchulbong Peak on Jeju Island, Gapado, Marado, and Jusangjeolli, targeting UAM tourism.

Additionally, Kenko is preparing for a low-altitude demonstration test in Jeju Island this October to achieve early commercialization in 2024, making active policy support necessary.

Lee Mingyu, CEO of Kenko Aerospace, said at the strategy forum, "Small and medium-sized enterprises have the advantage of faster demonstration compared to ecosystems created by large corporations," adding, "If the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport provides the opportunity, we can continue the business from 2024."

Won Heeryong, Minister of Land, Infrastructure and Transport, announced policy directions including the enactment of UAM laws for early commercialization, demonstration projects, pilot projects, and core technology R&D plans.

Minister Won stated, "To accelerate UAM commercialization, we will submit a bill containing bold regulatory exemptions in August," and added, "We will discover various services that meet public demand and promote pilot projects to mitigate early industry risks by 2025."

He emphasized, "The ultimate goal should be to secure a global market share through mass production of domestically produced aircraft, like a leading industry."

Meanwhile, the strategy forum was held as a side event of the ‘2022 Korea Drone and UAM Expo’ held on the 15th and 16th. UAM TEAM KOREA is a public-private consultative body formed for UAM commercialization, with a total of 47 organizations participating, including private companies such as Hanwha Systems, SK Telecom, Kakao Mobility, and Daewoo Construction.