Korea Maritime and Ocean University, KRISO sign MOU to build maritime AI hub

Korea Maritime and Ocean University and the Korea Research Institute of Ships and Ocean Engineering signed an MOU Wednesday to establish a "Maritime AX Innovation Hub." The hub is a platform designed to integrate AI technology into existing maritime industries, including autonomous vessels, unmanned systems and smart marine equipment.

The signing ceremony, held at the university's main administration building, was attended by Korea Maritime and Ocean University President Ryu Dong-geun, Korea Research Institute of Ships and Ocean Engineering President Yang Won-chang and other senior officials from both institutions. The agreement aims to accelerate the AI transformation of the maritime industry by combining the university's research capabilities with the institute's testing and demonstration infrastructure, while strengthening technological competitiveness in the sector.

Under the MOU, the two institutions will collaborate across the full spectrum of maritime AI transformation — from technology research and infrastructure development to talent cultivation and responses to government-led projects. The partnership is expected to accelerate digital transformation in the maritime sector and contribute to regional industrial development, as the two sides plan to jointly pursue policy projects led by the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy, the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries and the Busan city government.

"This agreement with the Korea Research Institute of Ships and Ocean Engineering will maximize the capabilities of both institutions and lead innovation in the AI transformation of the maritime industry," Ryu said. "We will take the lead in building an autonomous and unmanned maritime ecosystem and nurturing specialized talent."