[Busan Port Authority Press release/ February 21, 2025] On February 21, Blue Whale, a 7,500㎥ LNG bunker vessel operated by Korea LNG Bunkering Co., Ltd.(KOLB), successfully supplied approximately 2,400 tons of LNG to the 7,700 TEU container ship HMM Sky at Busan's new port. KOLB is a wholly owned subsidiary of Korea Gas Corporation.

This marked the first commercial application of SIMOPS (Simultaneous Operations with LNG Bunkering) in Korea, following a small-scale demonstration last year. SIMOPS involves the concurrent execution of LNG bunkering and port loading/unloading operations.

The Busan Port Authority anticipates that the ability to perform both bunkering and loading/unloading operations simultaneously will attract more shipping companies, potentially reducing operational costs. This advanced system is expected to enhance Busan Port’s global competitiveness and bolster its position as a key player in the maritime industry.