Seoul-based Korea Marine Transport Co (KMTC) has been linked to its biggest newbuild deal yet, securing an order for four 13,000 teu containerships at HD Hyundai yards.
Shipbrokers report the contract is valued at around $150m per vessel, underscoring a significant leap in scale for the traditionally intra-Asia-focused carrier. If confirmed, the $600m investment would represent KMTC’s largest containership order to date, both in size and value.
KMTC currently ranks 17th on Alphaliner’s global carrier list with a fleet of more than 60 boxships, the majority deployed on short- and mid-haul Asia trades. Its fleet composition has long leaned toward smaller units, with only a handful of post-panamax vessels in service.
The pivot to larger tonnage comes as KMTC accelerates its global ambitions. Earlier this year, the line re-entered the transpacific market after a 40-year absence, joining SeaLead Shipping and TS Lines on the Asia–West Coast (AWC) service. It has also launched a dedicated Asia–Mexico loop, responding to stronger market conditions and rising cargo volumes.
KMTC’s ties with HD Hyundai remain deep. In November 2024, the company placed an order for two 8,700 teu ships at HD Hyundai Samho, priced at about $115m each and scheduled for delivery in March 2027. Those units were set to become the carrier’s largest vessels—until the latest 13,000 teu deal raised the bar.