Overcoming Barriers to U.S.-South Korea Shipbuilding Cooperation

Be part of the conversation shaping the future of U.S.–Korea shipbuilding cooperation on Wednesday, November 12, 2025.

America is racing to meet growing commercial and defense demands for ships, and South Korea—one of the world’s leading shipbuilders—is emerging as a vital partner. Hanwha’s landmark 2024 acquisition of Philly Shipyard signaled a new era of trans-Pacific collaboration, with both governments now rallying behind the “Make American Shipbuilding Great Again (MASGA)” initiative.

But big ambitions face real-world challenges. From skilled-labor shortages to rising material costs and uncertain long-term demand, what will it take for the U.S. and Korea to turn MASGA’s promise into a sustainable partnership?

Join KEI for an engaging discussion on the opportunities and obstacles ahead for U.S.–Korea maritime cooperation—and what success could mean for both economies.

When: Wednesday, November 12, 2025, 10:00–11:00 a.m. ET
Where: KEI Event Space, 1800 K Street NW, 3F, Washington, D.C. 20006

In-person attendance is highly encouraged. Livestream available on the KEI YouTube channel.

The panelists’ research will also appear in the Fall/Winter 2025 issue of Korea Policy, KEI’s flagship journal, to be released in December.