Chung Kisun and Alex Karp Collaborate on AI Shipyards Initiative

In a significant move towards advancing shipbuilding technology, Chung Kisun, the Executive Vice Chairman of HD Hyundai, held a meeting with Alex Karp, the CEO of Palantir Technologies Inc., to discuss the ambitious initiative of constructing AI-powered shipyards. This meeting took place at Palantir's Washington, D.C. office and marks a notable collaboration between two industry leaders.

The partnership centers around the Future of Shipyard (FOS) project, which aims to revolutionize shipbuilding by integrating cutting-edge technologies, including virtual and augmented reality, robotics, automation, and artificial intelligence. Since the inception of this project in 2021, both companies have been working closely to redefine traditional shipyard operations.

One of the key takeaways from the meeting was the progress made on the AI shipyard project, which is currently in development. Both Chung and Karp discussed their shared vision for the future of shipbuilding, with plans for the completion of an 'Intelligent Autonomous Operating Shipyard' slated for 2030. This innovative facility is projected to increase productivity by 30% while also reducing construction timelines by a similar percentage—a groundbreaking achievement for the maritime industry.

Moreover, the discussion also touched on the possibilities of collaboration within the defense sector. Both leaders recognized that leveraging AI-based defense solutions could play a crucial role in enhancing the security framework for South Korea and the United States, making it a focal point of national security strategies for both nations moving forward.

As part of their continuing partnership, HD Hyundai and Palantir are also jointly developing an unmanned surface vessel (USV) named 'TENEBRIS.' This project, initiated in September, underscores the companies’ commitment to pushing the boundaries of technology in maritime environments. Additionally, HD Hyundai has been carrying out various collaborations with HD Hyundai Infracore, further expanding the impact of innovation across multiple fronts.

At the World Economic Forum Annual Meeting 2025, held in Davos, Switzerland, Chung was featured in a promotional video that revealed an outline of HD Hyundai's vision for future shipbuilding. This appearance highlighted the company’s dedication to not just the automation of shipyards but also to creating an environmentally sustainable future through digital innovations.

Chung's ongoing visit to the United States coincides with his attendance at CERA Week, the world’s largest energy event taking place in Houston, Texas, from March 10 to March 14. This event is expected to showcase various innovations in energy solutions and further position HD Hyundai as a thought leader in both shipbuilding and technological innovation.

As collaborations like the one between HD Hyundai and Palantir unfold, the maritime industry can anticipate a transformative shift towards more efficient, secure, and technologically advanced shipbuilding practices, paving the way for the future of maritime innovation. The commitment of both companies to AI shipyards not only signifies technological advancement but also represents a significant step towards modernizing the defense and maritime industries, ensuring they remain competitive on a global stage.