Seoul to Host 2027 World Steel Association General Assembly After 22-Year Gap

Seoul will host the 2027 General Assembly of the World Steel Association, marking the return of this major annual event to South Korea for the first time in 22 years. The decision was made at a member meeting in New Delhi, India, on October 13. The event, which occurs every October, brings together leaders from steelmaking companies to discuss industry challenges, promote cooperation and explore sustainable development.

Jang In-hwa, chairman of the Korea Iron & Steel Association and POSCO Group, played a key role in securing Seoul's hosting opportunity. POSCO, a major South Korean steel producer, has been pushing for the association's assembly to return to the country due to its strong industrial base. South Korea produced 62.23 million metric tons of crude steel in 2022, ranking sixth globally, and ranked highest in steel consumption per capita at 844 kilograms.

The 2027 assembly will focus on various topics, including the development of low-carbon steel products, international carbon emissions standards, and climate resilience. South Korea is actively pursuing technological advancements, such as hydrogen-based ironmaking, which uses hydrogen instead of coal in the iron production process. Key international steelmakers, such as India's JSW Group, are also exploring potential business partnerships.

POSCO received the top award in the process safety category at worldsteel's Safety and Health Excellence Recognition program for its vision AI-based safety technology. This technology analyzes video footage from industrial sites to identify hazardous situations and alert workers, preventing accidents before they occur. The 2027 assembly provides an opportunity for South Korea's steel industry to highlight its manufacturing capabilities, technological advancements, and commitment to sustainable growth, as well as to strengthen international partnerships in the face of the global transition toward lower-carbon production.