Based on mutual trust with Thailand,
Hanwha Ocean seeks to expand long-term cooperation
for maritime security and shipbuilding industry development
Hanwha Ocean discussed 'sustainable cooperation' based on mutual trust with the Thai government, with whom it has established ties through the export of frigates.
On the 10th, at Hanwha Ocean Seoul Office, Tanee Sangrat, Ambassador of Thailand to Korea (left), and Eo Seongcheol, Head of Hanwha Ocean Special Ship Division, are taking a commemorative photo after finishing a cooperation meeting. Provided by Hanwha Ocean
Hanwha Ocean (CEO Kim Heecheol) announced that on the 10th, at its Seoul office, Special Ship Division Head Uh Seongcheol and company officials met with Tanee Sangrat, the Thai Ambassador to Korea, and his delegation to discuss close cooperation for the development of Thailand's maritime security and shipbuilding industry.
Ambassador Tanee, who took office in April last year, visited Hanwha Ocean for the first official exchange. Hanwha Ocean presented Ambassador Tanee with its long-term vision to enhance the competitiveness of Thailand's shipbuilding industry and expand collaboration with local shipyards. In response, Ambassador Tanee showed keen interest in Hanwha Ocean's warship construction technology, localization strategy, and especially the possibility of technology transfer, engaging in an active Q&A session.
Ambassador Tanee also communicated via video call with Thai trainees undergoing training at Hanwha Ocean's Geoje Technical Training Center, experiencing firsthand the vibrant scene of practical cooperation.
Ambassador Tanee emphasized, "I want to further elevate economic cooperation between our two countries by combining defense industry collaboration for the modernization of the Royal Thai Navy with Hanwha Ocean's outstanding shipbuilding technology for Thailand's industry," adding, "These efforts will contribute to strengthening Thailand's maritime security." Referring to the HTMS Bhumibol Adulyadej, Hanwha Ocean's flagship export case, he shared, "Every time I see this frigate protecting Thai waters, I feel great pride." The ambassador's delegation also agreed that Hanwha Ocean is an "excellent partner" that goes beyond simply providing products to fostering talent and advancing industry.
Uh Seongcheol, Head of Hanwha Ocean's Special Ship Division, said, "This visit was a valuable opportunity to share Hanwha Ocean's commitment and vision as a trusted partner supporting Thailand's maritime security," and added, "We will continue to help build Thailand's industrial capabilities and contribute to economic growth through warship exports and collaboration."
In 2013, Hanwha Ocean won an order from Thailand for a 3,700-ton class frigate, which was successfully delivered in 2018.
The Thai government named the vessel after the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej, who reigned for 70 years and 4 months from 1946 until his passing at the age of 89 in 2016, earning the deep respect of the Thai people as the 'Father of the Nation.'
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