HJ Shipbuilding and Construction has successfully completed the routine warranty repairs of the Korea Institute of Geoscience and Mineral Resources’ state-of-the-art 3D/4D physical exploration vessel, Tamhai 3H, garnering widespread recognition.
Tamhai 3H is a flagship research vessel, weighing 6,862 tons, and is the only advanced exploration ship in South Korea capable of operating across all of the world’s oceanic regions. It can carry up to 50 crew members, achieve speeds of up to 28 km/h, and has a range of 36,000 km, enabling it to undertake expeditions to both the Arctic and Antarctic.
On March 20, HJ Shipbuilding and Construction commenced the vessel’s routine maintenance at its Yeongdo Shipyard in Busan. Over approximately 40 days, technicians meticulously inspected and repaired the hull, coating, and bearing systems, as well as implemented various improvements. Equipped with an ice-resistant hull and dynamic positioning technology, Tamhai 3H has been recognized for its top-tier performance on the global stage.
Moreover, the vessel’s onboard equipment is designed to enhance Korea’s offshore resource exploration capabilities. With over 50% of its equipment dedicated to exploration functions—substantially higher than other research vessels—Tamhai 3H is considered one of the most advanced ships in its class worldwide.
Since its official launch in June last year, Tamhai 3H has already conducted its first mission, exploring submarine CO2 storage sites in the Gunsan Basin of the Yellow Sea. This year, following its routine maintenance, it plans to undertake detailed surveys of rare earth mineral deposits beneath the Pacific Ocean floor, contributing to resource development efforts.
Kim Jin-ho, head of the vessel construction team at the Korea Institute of Geoscience and Mineral Resources, stated, “Tamhai 3H has demonstrated outstanding performance and high crew satisfaction as a cutting-edge research vessel. Through diverse marine research activities, we aim to elevate Korea’s national status.”
Yoo Sang-chul, CEO of HJ Shipbuilding and Construction, also expressed, “By building world-class research ships, we contribute to enhancing Korea’s standing in the global arena. We will continue to showcase our capabilities in constructing advanced vessels, including next-generation icebreaker research ships.”
