Goheung, Jeju vying to host Korea's 2nd space center

Two regions in South Korea, Jeonnam-Gwangju Special Metropolitan City and Jeju Special Self-Governing Province, are competing to host the country's second space center, according to the Korea AeroSpace Administration (KASA). The announcement of the host region is expected in October. KASA revealed that both areas applied for the open bidding process.

While specific locations have not been disclosed, South Jeolla Province, represented by Goheung County, has been promoted as a candidate region by the province. On the other hand, Jeju Province reportedly suggested utilizing a floating launch facility situated off the coast of Seogwipo, a city on the island. The second space center is intended to facilitate over 10 reusable launch vehicle operations annually, starting from the mid- to late 2030s.

The government plans to establish launch, landing, and maintenance facilities for reusable launch vehicles on a site spanning approximately 5.62 million square meters by 2034. Currently, Korea primarily relies on the Naro Space Center for its space activities.