Anduril expands in South Korea with new office and partnerships

Anduril Industries has expanded its footprint in South Korea, opening a new office in Seoul and signing multiple agreements with domestic defense firms to co-develop unmanned systems and artificial intelligence-driven platforms for naval and aerial applications.

The U.S. defense technology company’s expansion was marked by a two-day visit from co-founder Palmer Luckey and senior executives, who met with South Korean government officials, industry leaders and aerospace companies. A formal launch event was held in Seoul, attended by representatives from the Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA) and major defense firms.

John Kim has been appointed Vice President and Head of Anduril Korea. With previous leadership roles in Boeing Korea’s defense business, Kim will oversee the company’s local operations and plans to double the headcount within 12 months.

Government and Industry Engagement

According to South Korean government sources, the visit builds on a memorandum of understanding signed in April between DAPA and Anduril to conduct joint research and development in advanced unmanned combat systems. The agreement forms part of South Korea’s long-term modernization strategy, which prioritizes autonomous capabilities and AI integration.

As part of its expansion strategy, Anduril also signed separate memorandums of understanding with Korean Air, LIG Nex1 and HD Hyundai to explore collaboration on unmanned and AI-enabled defense platforms.

HD Hyundai Partnership

HD Hyundai signed a memorandum of agreement with Anduril at its global research center in Seongnam, following an earlier MOU in April. The deal will see Anduril’s autonomous mission execution systems integrated into HD Hyundai’s unmanned surface vessels (USVs) under development for the Korean market.

HD Hyundai will provide AI-based autonomy solutions for Anduril’s manned and unmanned naval platforms for the U.S. market, as well as ship design and construction. Both companies will jointly develop prototype USVs for Korea and the U.S., with the Korean prototype expected around 2027. Korean Air Agreement

Separately, Korean Air entered a strategic partnership with Anduril to co-develop autonomous unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) for Korea and the Asia-Pacific region. The plan includes developing Korean-type UAS based on Anduril’s platforms, exploring export opportunities, and considering a local manufacturing facility.

Focus on Advanced Capabilities

South Korea’s Ministry of Defense has identified technologies such as AI, cost-effective autonomous systems and networked weapons as central to future defense planning. Industry officials note that Anduril’s focus on software-first solutions aligns with these objectives.

Founded in 2017, Anduril employs over 6,000 people and is valued at more than $30 billion. Its systems are in service with the U.S. Department of Defense, the U.S. Navy, the Australian Defense Force and the UK Ministry of Defense. The new Seoul office adds to Anduril’s Indo-Pacific presence and supports its efforts to work closely with local industry on next-generation defense technologies.