South Korea launched its fourth homegrown space rocket, Nuri. The rocket put over a dozen satellites into orbit. This was the first launch done together with a private company, according to the Science Ministry.
South Korea started the Nuri rocket program in 2021. In the latest launch, a local company, Hanwha Aerospace, led the rocket's building and assembly, using technology shared by the government. A live stream on YouTube by the Korea Aerospace Research Institute showed the rocket launching into the night sky from its launchpad in Goheung.
The main commercial satellite, along with 12 smaller cube satellites, were successfully placed into orbit, according to South Korea’s Ministry of Science and ICT.
Another South Korean company, HD Hyundai Heavy, operated the launchpad.
Shares in both Hanwha Aerospace and HD Hyundai Heavy went up by 1.6% on Thursday morning, outperforming other stocks.
With Thursday's launch, South Korea plans to test-launch a total of six rockets by 2027.
The government said it transferred technology to Hanwha to help the private sector grow its space industry and improve the country's aerospace capabilities.
Executive Statement
According to South Korean President Lee Jae Myung, this is the first time that private companies have participated in the entire process. As they have proved the independence of their science and technology, they believe it will be the foundation for future generations.