Hyundai Rotem has officially launched Korea’s first development program for a reusable space launch vehicle methane engine.
The company announced on December 3 that it participated in the kickoff meeting for the “Methane Engine Technology Development for Ground-Based Reusable Space Launch Vehicle” project held at the KW Convention Center in Daejeon. The project is hosted by the Defense Acquisition Program Administration’s Agency for Defense Development Innovation (DTaL), and Hyundai Rotem has joined the consortium alongside Korean Air to lead the core research efforts. The goal is to secure design and combustion technology for a 35-ton thrust methane engine suitable for reusable rockets.
The kickoff event was attended by stakeholders from the DAPA, DTaL, the Korean Army, the Agency for Defense Development, the Korea Aerospace Administration, Korean Air, and Victronexus Tech. DTaL Director Son Jae-hong stated, “This project marks Korea’s full-scale entry into the field of core future space defense technology,” adding that the agency will fully support the program’s successful execution.
Methane engines produce less soot and offer better storability than traditional kerosene engines, making them ideal for reusable launch vehicles. As they are widely viewed as the global standard for next-generation rockets, acquiring independent technological capability is critical for strengthening national security and global competitiveness. The program is expected to play a foundational role in advancing Korea’s positioning in the New Space era.
Hyundai Rotem began methane engine research in 1994 and successfully conducted Korea’s first combustion test in 2006. Through this new initiative, the company aims to accelerate commercialization of methane engines for reusable rockets and build a foundation for global market entry in the space launch sector.
The project will also strengthen Korea’s early-stage space industry ecosystem through close cooperation among specialized institutions in areas such as engines, combustion chambers, and turbopumps. Hyundai Rotem plans to create development synergies and take a leading role in the country’s expanding space industrial capabilities.
“With over 30 years of accumulated methane engine expertise, we will devote all efforts to the success of this program,” a Hyundai Rotem official said. “We will continue developing key human resources and work closely with partner organizations to commercialize reusable methane engines and reinforce Korea’s space industry competitiveness.”
In addition to methane propulsion, Hyundai Rotem is developing various technologies for space launch vehicles and guided weapons, including ducted ramjet and hypersonic dual-ramjet engines. Earlier this year, the company took part in a Korean long-range air-to-air missile engine project, and its dual-ramjet-powered hypersonic demonstrator “HyCore” achieved Mach 6 flight, bolstering its leadership in advanced aerospace propulsion.
