Jeonnam-Gwangju and Jeju compete for South Korea's Second Space Center

The Korea AeroSpace Administration (KASA) has announced that Jeonnam-Gwangju and Jeju have both applied to host the country's Second Space Center. The facility is intended to serve as a national core space transport infrastructure, supporting the launch, landing, and maintenance of next-generation reusable launch vehicles.

The project aims to address the growing demand for satellite launches and the expanding use of reusable launch technology, as the existing Naro Space Center in Goheung is approaching its capacity limits. Construction of the new center is planned to take place over seven years, from 2028 to 2034, on a site covering approximately 1.7 million pyeong.

KASA will utilize a site selection committee to review the applicants. Evaluation criteria include launch operationality, infrastructure environment, location, and social conditions. The final decision is expected to be announced in mid-October. Jeonnam-Gwangju highlights its existing technical expertise and infrastructure, while Jeju emphasizes its geographic advantages, including open seas that provide excellent launch angles and safety zones.