Hanwha expands global security network at APEC forum

Son Jae-il, CEO of Hanwha Aerospace, delivers a speech at the Future Tech Forum: Defense in Gyeongju, North Gyeongsang Province, Monday. Courtesy of Hanwha Group

Hanwha Aerospace, Hanwha Systems and Hanwha Ocean, three defense companies under the Hanwha Group, held the “Hanwha Future Tech Forum: Defense” in Gyeongju, North Gyeongsang Province, Monday.

The event, held under the theme “Sustainable Peace for All,” is an official side event of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) CEO Summit, bringing together about 270 participants, including domestic and international military officials, security experts and defense industry CEOs.

In his welcome remarks, Son Jae-il, CEO of Hanwha Aerospace, highlighted the importance of preparing for peace responsibly in an era where artificial intelligence (AI) and advanced manufacturing converge, stressing that Hanwha’s technology is aimed at protection rather than provocation. He added that the group is investing in frontier areas such as AI, smart manufacturing, space and energy, while expanding a trust-based network for global security cooperation.

The forum also offered networking opportunities for small and mid-sized Korean defense companies to connect with major domestic firms, including Korea Aerospace Industries, LIG, Korean Air, HJ Heavy Industries and Poongsan, as well as global defense companies.

Keynote speakers included former Australian Defense Minister Christopher Pyne, who discussed Australia’s defense industry policy outlook in an era of strategic competition, and NATO Rapid Deployable Corps Commander Lt. Gen. Ralph Woodis, who emphasized technological preparedness and international collaboration in response to evolving warfare. Kang Eun-ho, former minister of the Defense Acquisition Program Administration, outlined a technology-focused strategy to enhance Korea’s global defense competitiveness.

During a dialogue session with John Chipman, director of the International Institute for Strategic Studies, Alex Wong, Hanwha Group chief strategy officer, shared perspectives on the importance of technological sovereignty and economic security in the AI era, emphasizing that global partnerships and innovation are critical to maintaining a competitive edge.

Video messages from National Assembly Speaker Woo Won-sik and Prime Minister Kim Min-seok praised Hanwha’s innovative leadership and called for strengthened public-private collaboration. Defense Minister Ahn Gyu-back underscored the integration of AI and manned-unmanned systems, noting the role of government-industry cooperation in fostering sustainable growth and contributing to global peace.

Through the forum, Hanwha Group reinforced its commitment as a global defense company, showcasing its leadership in AI, advanced manufacturing and frontier technologies while strengthening networks for international security cooperation.