The UAE Space Agency and INNOSPACE, a South Korean private spaceflight startup specializing in small satellite launch vehicles, have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to bolster cooperation in space commercialization.

The signing ceremony took place in Seoul on May 31, during the UAE Space Agency’s visit to South Korea. The MoU was signed by Soojong Kim, CEO of INNOSPACE, and His Excellency Ibrahim Al Qasim, Deputy Director General of the UAE Space Agency.

This MoU marks the beginning of a collaborative relationship between the UAE Space Agency and INNOSPACE, aiming to foster continuous mutual cooperation in developing the space business and advancing the space economy.

From March 4 to 8, INNOSPACE representatives visited the UAE Space Agency to discuss mutual space cooperation and perform an on-site inspection of potential launch sites in the UAE. Following the MoU signing, the two organizations will work towards finalizing the optimal launch site selection and initiating the construction of a facility equipped with the necessary infrastructure for satellite launches, including a launch pad, launcher assembly facility, and control center.

“We are pleased to receive recognition from the UAE Space Agency for our space technology and capabilities in overseas launch operations. This recognition comes after the successful launch of the ‘HANBIT-TLV’, at the Alcantara Space Center in Brazil in March 2023,” said Soojong Kim, CEO of INNOSPACE.

“With the signing of this MoU, INNOSPACE is dedicated to making a significant contribution to the implementation of the UAE’s space commercialization plan. Furthermore, we anticipate that this opportunity will not only establish a foundation for our future entry into the launch service business in the Middle East but also contribute to securing demand for satellite launches,” Kim added.

Led by HE Ibrahim Al Qasim, the UAE Space Agency delegation visited INNOSPACE in South Korea from January 31 to February 2. During their three-day visit, they toured various INNOSPACE facilities, including the paraffin-based solid fuel manufacturing plant in Sejong, the launcher assembly facility in Cheongju, and the rocket engine hot-fire test facility in Geumsan. The visit facilitated valuable discussions about new collaboration opportunities and future challenges.

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