South Korea Accelerates Offshore Wind Power Push with Ambitious 2030 Targets
The South Korean government unveiled a comprehensive plan on December 10, 2025, to rapidly expand its offshore wind power capacity, aiming for a 4 gigawatt (GW) annual supply system by 2030 and a cumulative 25GW+ by 2035. This initiative signals a significant commitment to renewable energy and a strategic move to lower electricity costs for consumers.
The Ministry of Climate, Energy and Environment announced the “Offshore Wind Power Infrastructure Expansion and Supply Plan” following a meeting of the ‘Pan-Government Offshore Wind Power Supply Acceleration Task Force.’ Representatives from key ministries – including Oceans and Fisheries, National Defense, and the Financial Services Commission – alongside industry stakeholders, convened to outline specific implementation strategies for the coming years.
Currently, South Korea’s commercial operation of offshore wind power lags behind global trends, standing at just 0.35GW per year. This shortfall is attributed to infrastructure gaps, financing challenges, complex licensing procedures, and difficulties in gaining local acceptance. Recognizing these hurdles, the government has adopted a pragmatic approach, prioritizing actionable tasks over broad declarations. “This offshore wind power plan is not a declarative slogan, but an action plan to pragmatically solve the tasks needed in the field,” stated a senior official.
Building the Foundation: Infrastructure Investments
A core component of the plan focuses on bolstering critical infrastructure. The government intends to establish a port system capable of handling 4GW of offshore wind power components annually by 2030, building upon the existing capacity at Mokpo New Port. Expansion will involve both adjustments to existing port functions and the development of new support piers.
Investment in specialized vessels is also a priority. The plan calls for securing more than four 15MW installation vessels (WTIV) by 2030 through a combination of public and private funding. Financial support will be channeled through the National Growth Fund and the Future Energy Fund, with expanded guarantee and loan limits to ensure project stability. These investments are projected to secure 10.5GW of pre-construction and commencement volume by 2030, paving the way for the 25GW+ target by 2035.
Streamlining Regulations and Fostering Competition
Addressing the complexities of the licensing process is another key focus. The government will review military operability agreements – a crucial requirement for offshore wind projects – to balance national security with renewable energy development. Competitive bidding for projects will incorporate advance reviews of military operational capabilities, aiming to reduce uncertainty and stimulate market competition. The goal is to achieve a competition rate exceeding 2:1, driving down power generation costs.
To further enhance investor confidence, a long-term supply bidding roadmap extending to 2035 will be released in the first half of next year, providing clear mid- and long-term milestones for the industry.
Accelerated Project Execution and Cost Reduction
To expedite project timelines, the government is establishing the ‘Offshore Wind Power Development Promotion Team,’ a director-level organization, ahead of schedule. Originally slated for launch in March 2026, the team will be operational by the end of 2025, responding directly to the Prime Minister’s Office directive. This team will focus on shortening project durations – aiming to reduce the average timeframe from 10 years to under 6.5 years – and streamlining key licensing processes, conflict mediation, and infrastructure support.
Looking ahead, the government will explore improvements to the bidding system, including extended contract periods and price indexation. Cost reductions will also be pursued through the elimination of redundant public transmission networks and the construction of energy hubs near offshore wind complexes. These measures are expected to drive down the unit price of offshore wind power generation to below 250 won per kilowatt-hour (kWh) in 2030 and below 150 won/kWh in 2035.
Investing in Innovation and Domestic Capabilities
The plan also emphasizes research and development to bolster South Korea’s competitiveness in the offshore wind sector. Support will be provided for the development and demonstration of 20MW-class domestic turbine technology, alongside the construction of a 100MW-class floating demonstration facility. The government will also encourage developers to integrate domestic supply chains, leveraging the nation’s strengths in shipbuilding and offshore plant technologies.
Climate Minister Kim Seong-hwan underscored the government’s commitment to a collaborative approach, stating that the plan aims to “realize an example of coexistence in which fishermen and local residents participate and share benefits.” The initiative represents a significant step towards a sustainable energy future for South Korea, balancing economic growth with environmental responsibility.
