POSCO Group Launches First LNG Carrier to Strengthen Energy Supply Chain

On May 23, POSCO International [047050] held a naming ceremony for the group’s first independently operated LNG carrier, HL FORTUNA, at HD Hyundai Samho in Mokpo, South Jeolla Province. Fortuna means “fortune” in Latin. (Image courtesy of POSCO Group)

SEOUL, May 25, 2025 — POSCO Group announced Sunday that it will begin full operation of its first dedicated liquefied natural gas (LNG) carrier in the second half of 2025, as part of its strategy to secure a stable energy transport system and expand its presence in the global energy market.

The 174,000-cubic-meter vessel, named HL Fortuna—meaning “fortune” in Latin—was christened on May 23 at HD Hyundai Samho Heavy Industries in Mokpo, South Jeolla Province. The project represents a multi-sector collaboration between POSCO International, HD Hyundai Samho, and H-Line Shipping.

POSCO International, which oversees the group’s LNG operations, will manage long-term import contracts and overall operation of the ship, while HD Hyundai Samho handled its construction and H-Line Shipping will be responsible for its operation.

Measuring 299 meters in length and 46.4 meters in width, HL Fortuna is optimized for North American LNG transport. The vessel features a dual-fuel propulsion system and a high-efficiency re-liquefaction unit that captures and recycles evaporated gas, ensuring compliance with international environmental regulations.

Following a sea trial after delivery on May 27, HL Fortuna will be deployed for global LNG trading. From 2026, it will begin transporting LNG from the Cheniere terminal in Louisiana, under POSCO International’s long-term supply contracts.

The carrier will make at least five round trips annually between North America and POSCO’s Gwangyang LNG Terminal, supporting the company’s long-term LNG contracts, including a 400,000-ton deal with Cheniere Energy and a 700,000-ton agreement with Mexico Pacific.

As the Mexico Pacific project ramps up, POSCO International also plans to secure additional LNG carriers to ensure the stable transport of increasing supply volumes.

“With the launch of HL Fortuna, POSCO’s LNG value chain—from upstream production to import, storage, and power generation—has become significantly stronger,” said a POSCO International spokesperson. “This positions us to respond more effectively to global protectionist trade trends and enhances the group’s resilience in the global energy market.”

M. H. Lee (mhlee@koreabizwire.com)