Success of KSLV-2 Launch and Future of Space Development in Korea

Chang Young-Keun 

(ykchang@kau.ac.kr)       

Professor, 

Korea Aerospace University​ 

English Abstract

On June 21, the South Korean government successfully launched its first domestically developed space rocket, Nuri—a 30-year long-cherished project. Consequently, interests in domestic space industry are increasing. The fact that South Korea has developed a space launch vehicle, which had only been owned only by powerful countries, has served as an opportunity to inspire public pride and pride. However, Nuri is an expendable launch vehicle that can only be used once.

In the era of New Space, startup companies are competing to develop new low-cost and reusable launch vehicles around the world through innovative technologies such as rocket reuse technologies and 3D printing technologies. Falcon and Starship of SpaceX of the U.S. are typical examples. Meanwhile, even a follow-up project after launching Nuri will be mainly carried out by the Korean government. There is an urgent need to adapt to the company-led business of the space industry; national research institutes with technological capabilities should support the creation of a new space ecosystem.