SEOUL, South Korea — POSCO Group, a leading South Korean conglomerate known for its steel and energy businesses, has introduced its first dedicated liquefied natural gas (LNG) carrier, marking a significant step in building a robust energy supply chain. The vessel, set to begin operations in the second half of 2025, will transport North American LNG, enhancing the group’s presence in the global energy market.

The carrier, named HL Fortuna—Latin for “fortune”—was christened on May 23, 2025, at HD Hyundai Samho’s shipyard in Mokpo, South Jeolla Province. The project is a collaboration among three major players in South Korea’s energy, shipbuilding, and shipping sectors. POSCO International, the group’s trading arm, oversees LNG procurement and operations; HD Hyundai Samho constructed the vessel; and H-Line Shipping handles its management.

The HL Fortuna is a 174,000-cubic-meter carrier, measuring 299 meters in length and 46.4 meters in width, designed specifically for transporting LNG from North America. It can carry enough natural gas to power South Korea for 12 hours in a single trip. Equipped with a dual-fuel system using LNG as its primary fuel and advanced re-liquefaction technology to recycle evaporated gas, the vessel complies with stringent international environmental regulations.

Following its delivery on May 27, the HL Fortuna will undergo sea trials before entering global LNG trading in the second half of 2025. Starting in 2026, it will transport LNG from Cheniere Energy’s terminal in Louisiana for domestic use in South Korea and international trading. The vessel is expected to make at least five round trips annually, carrying LNG under POSCO International’s long-term contracts with North American suppliers.

POSCO International has secured significant LNG contracts, including 400,000 tons annually from Cheniere Energy and 700,000 tons from Mexico Pacific. As the Mexico Pacific project ramps up, POSCO plans to acquire additional carriers to ensure stable transport. These efforts are part of South Korea’s push to diversify energy sources amid global supply chain uncertainties, with LNG playing a growing role in the nation’s energy mix.

The christening ceremony was attended by key executives, including POSCO International President Kye-in Lee, POSCO Vice President Yukyung Lee, HD Hyundai Samho President Jae-eul Kim, and H-Line Shipping President Myung-deuk Seo.

“This carrier strengthens POSCO Group’s LNG value chain, from production to import, storage, and power generation,” a POSCO International official said. “It equips us to navigate global protectionism and enhances our supply stability and trading efficiency. We plan to secure more vessels to further bolster our global supply chain.”

The move underscores POSCO’s strategic shift toward energy, complementing its core steel business. By integrating LNG transport into its operations, the group aims to capitalize on the growing demand for cleaner energy while reinforcing South Korea’s energy security.

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