ONE Buys Stake in Korea’s Automated Terminal

Post by : Avinab Raana

Photo : X / Splash

In a move that reflects the rapid transformation of global port infrastructure, Ocean Network Express (ONE) has acquired a stake in a fully automated container terminal in South Korea, signalling a decisive shift toward technology-driven logistics. As global trade becomes increasingly dependent on speed, precision, and reliability, investments like these are no longer optional—they are essential for shipping lines looking to stay competitive in a digitally evolving maritime landscape.

The agreement sees ONE entering into a long-term partnership with South Korea’s Dongwon Group, acquiring an indirect but meaningful stake in Dongwon Global Terminal Busan (DGT), a major upcoming facility in one of Asia’s most critical maritime hubs. This investment is not just financial—it is strategic, giving ONE direct access to terminal capacity in Busan, a port that plays a pivotal role in both gateway and transshipment operations across Asia and global trade routes.

What sets this terminal apart is its fully automated design, making it one of South Korea’s most advanced port developments. The facility is being built with cutting-edge automation technologies, including automated guided vehicles and digitalised cargo handling systems, enabling faster turnaround times and reduced human intervention. Once completed, the terminal is expected to handle over 4.5 million TEUs annually across multiple berths, positioning it as a high-capacity hub capable of managing large-scale container flows with remarkable efficiency. 

For ONE, this move is part of a broader strategy to secure direct access to key terminals rather than relying solely on third-party operators. By investing in port infrastructure, the company gains greater control over cargo handling, improves schedule reliability, and enhances service quality for its customers. In an industry where delays and congestion can ripple across global supply chains, such control becomes a powerful competitive advantage, allowing carriers to offer more predictable and efficient services.

Busan is not just another port, it is one of the busiest container hubs in the world, acting as a gateway for South Korea and a transshipment hub for Northeast Asia. The addition of a fully automated terminal further strengthens its position in global logistics, enabling smoother cargo flows between major trade lanes. For shipping lines like ONE, securing capacity in such a location ensures long-term relevance in a market where access to efficient ports is increasingly becoming a defining factor for success.

ONE’s investment in an automated container terminal is more than a business deal—it is a clear signal of where the maritime industry is heading. As ports evolve into smart, technology-driven ecosystems, shipping lines that align themselves with these advancements will be better positioned to navigate the complexities of modern trade. In a world where efficiency defines competitiveness, this move places ONE firmly on the front foot in the race toward the future of global logistics.

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