National Assembly passes amended space development law, streamlining launch permits and enabling defense launches

An alternative bill incorporating the key provisions of an amendment to the Space Development Promotion Act, introduced by Rep. Hwang Hee of the Democratic Party of Korea (Seoul Yangcheon-gap), passed the National Assembly plenary session Thursday.

According to Hwang, the amendment reduces the regulatory burden on operators launching space launch vehicles of identical specifications from the same launch site, and allows rapid response to defense-related space launches requiring urgency and security.

Under the revised law, operators launching the same type of launch vehicle from the same site two or more times within a five-year period may apply for launch permits in a single batch. For launch vehicles serving national defense purposes, the minister of national defense will be authorized to grant launch approval.

The bill also introduces a "launch safety zone" regime to ensure the safe launch and operation of space launch vehicles. Administrative agencies seeking to approve or process permits related to the construction or modification of buildings, roads, railways, ports or maritime structures within such zones must first consult with the head of the Korea AeroSpace Administration (KASA).

"I hope this amendment will lower the burden of repeated launches and serve as an opportunity to strengthen both the competitiveness of the space industry and the country's defense space capabilities," Hwang said.