#South Korea #Seoul #Seadronix #AI Navigation #Maritime Tech

Seadronix Secures $11.3 Million in Series B Funding

Seadronix, a pioneering force in the field of AI-empowered autonomous navigation for ships, recently announced a significant achievement on March 5, 2025. The South Korean company successfully secured approximately $11.3 million (or KRW 15 billion) in its Series B funding round. This development is poised to further accelerate Seadronix's global expansion efforts in providing cutting-edge navigation technologies.

A Growing Portfolio of Investors

The recent funding round saw participation from notable new investors, including LB Investment, KB Investment, and the Korea Development Bank. Moreover, existing investors like Wonik Investment Partners and Lighthouse Combined Investment contributed through additional investments, reflecting their growing confidence in Seadronix's vision and technological prowess.

Since its inception in 2015, Seadronix has rapidly positioned itself at the forefront of autonomous ship navigation solutions. The company stands out for its advanced situational awareness AI technologies, which have transformed aspects previously deemed insurmountable within the maritime landscape. This triumph can be attributed to an impressive research team and an extensive collection of real-world operational data that supports its innovations.

Recognition and Achievements

Seadronix's technological capabilities have not gone unnoticed. The company has garnered several prestigious awards, such as an Innovation Award at CES 2024, and it holds the distinction of being the first globally to receive type approval from a recognized classification society. Furthermore, the company has achieved certifications from the South Korean Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries for its innovative products. These milestones not only solidify Seadronix's reputation in the maritime sector but also showcase its commitment to enhancing industrial competitiveness through participation in significant government-led initiatives, including a KRW 160 billion project aimed at developing Autonomous Ship Technology.

Future Aspirations and Market Impact

With the infusion of new capital, Seadronix is now positioned to bolster its research and development efforts in ship AI and robotics technology. The company aims to explore new market opportunities and expand its global footprint, backed by existing contracts with international partners in nations like Singapore and the Netherlands.

Their key offerings include:

• - NAVISS: An AI navigation support system that enhances smart navigation capabilities.
• - Rec-SEA: A software solution that allows for simple upgrades to existing ship cameras.
• - AVISS: An integrated AI port management system that streamlines various port operations.

These selected technologies are being deployed across various marine environments worldwide for the first time, showcasing a revolutionary shift from human intuition in navigation tasks to AI-driven operations. This transformation is expected not only to improve safety but also to boost operational efficiency in the maritime sector, making Seadronix's solutions essential as industries move towards autonomy.

Comments from Leadership

Oh Sung-in, Senior Investment Manager at LB Investment, remarked on Seadronix’s role within the maritime market, likening its impact to that of automotive Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS). He expressed optimism for significant growth within both the global shipping and defense sectors, emphasizing Seadronix's unique position in what is often seen as a conservative market.

KB Investment’s Director, Lee Jun-seok, echoed similar sentiments, highlighting how Seadronix acts as a barometer within the market for autonomous navigation solutions. He expressed enthusiasm for the company's ongoing collaborations with revered global shipbuilding firms and its commitment to establishing standards that align with international navigation regulations.

Finally, Byeolteo Park, CEO of Seadronix, expressed gratitude for the confidence investors have shown through this funding round. He articulated a commitment to not only reinforcing Seadronix's leadership in AI technology tailored for maritime contexts but also focusing on providing practical AI solutions that meet the needs of global customers. He underlined a clear goal: to redefine the future of autonomous navigation within the industry.

In conclusion, with robust funding and a commitment to innovation, Seadronix is set to dramatically reshape the future of maritime navigation, making strides toward a fully autonomous shipping landscape.