South Korea's Hydrogen Demand in Mobility Soars 59% in 2023

South Korea saw a 59 per cent increase in demand for hydrogen in the mobility industry through September compared to the previous year. According to the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy, the total use of hydrogen in the sector increased significantly to 6,389 tons from 4,016 tons in the same period last year.

"Amid the rising number of hydrogen buses in the country, opportunities for people to experience hydrogen products in daily life are increasing," Deputy Minister for Energy Policy Lee Ho-hyeon said, according to sources.

"Since a stable supply of hydrogen is essential to foster the hydrogen mobility industry, the government plans to closely monitor the market and maintain close communication with related ministries, regional governments and companies," Lee added.

The ministry announced that the Korea Petroleum Quality & Distribution Authority, in charge of hydrogen supply, will conduct on-site inspections at hydrogen facilities nationwide this month to maintain market stability.

At the same time, three cities will be chosen by the government to become the country's inaugural hydrogen-focused complexes, with support provided for their development as hubs for the hydrogen industry.

Following a meeting of the Hydrogen Economy Committee led by the government, it was announced that Donghae and Samcheok in Gangwon Province and Pohang in North Gyeongsang Province have been designated for hydrogen cluster projects after passing initial feasibility surveys.