• The Need for Establishing a South Korea-Europe Green Shipping Corridor

In alignment with the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) 2050 net-zero target, South Korea has announced its “Greenship-K Program” to accelerate the adoption of eco-friendly vessels and set a national goal to achieve a 100% reduction in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from shipping by 2050. Green Shipping Corridors have emerged as a key strategy for decarbonizing the maritime sector, and structural transformation for practical implementation remains a critical challenge.

• Recommendation for a GSC for PCTCs Linking Pyeongtaek and Key European Ports

This report proposes the establishment of a Green Shipping Corridor (GSC) focused on Pure Car and Truck Carriers (PCTCs), linking Pyeongtaek Port—South Korea’s largest hub for automotive trade—with major European ports including Bremerhaven, Antwerp, Zeebrugge, and Southampton. Unlike container terminals, car terminals require minimal heavy cargo-handling infrastructure, making them more suitable for conversion to green port operations. Given the steady cargo volumes typically seen in PCTC services, the route presents high potential for sustainable, long-term operation.

• Introducing a Low-Emission Shipping Model Based on Green Methanol

As the global shipping industry accelerates its shift toward clean fuels, methanol-powered vessels are gaining traction as a viable alternative to conventional fossil fuels. The Korean government has announced plans to deploy green methanol-fueled ships on the Busan–Tacoma route starting in 2027. According to Clarkson Research, there are currently 361 methanol-powered ships in operation or on order worldwide, including 30 Roll-on, Roll-off (RoRo) or Pure Car Carrier (PCC) vessels. In this context, this report proposes the adoption of green methanol as the primary fuel for the Korea–Europe corridor, with a long-term goal to transition toward e-methanol. This shift is expected to reduce CO₂ emissions by more than 70% compared to conventional fossil fuel use.

• Proposal for a Public-Private Partnership Driven Implementation Strategy

Robust public policy support is crucial to establish a Korea–Europe Green Shipping Corridor. This includes enacting a dedicated Green Shipping Corridor Bill, creating fuel supply infrastructure, and providing expanded financial support. At the same time, active participation from key private-sector stakeholders such as shipping companies, fuel suppliers, cargo owners, and financial institutions will be indispensable. Through targeted financial incentives from the government, shipping lines can invest in eco-friendly vessels, while cargo owners can adopt transport options that utilize low-emission non-fossil fuel, helping to stabilize demand. Financial institutions can further accelerate market formation through increased investment, thereby enhancing both the feasibility and competitiveness of the green corridor.