Pohang, South Korea – Once synonymous with heavy steel mills and giant blast furnaces, Pohang in North Gyeongsang Province is reinventing itself. Known globally as the home of POSCO, one of the world's largest steel companies, this southeastern coastal city is charting a new course in 2025.
On the materials front, the city is focusing on battery materials, particularly artificial graphite anodes and biomaterials. Local research institutions and start-ups are exploring ways to convert steel byproducts into high-purity anode materials for electric vehicle batteries, aiming to leverage existing infrastructure and expertise.
This year, local authorities introduced an EV materials cluster to streamline collaboration between manufacturers, researchers and investors. The initiative seeks to position Pohang as South Korea's battery capital, attracting talent and funding to its industrial parks.
Along the coastline, Pohang is also boosting maritime tourism with eco-friendly boat tours, marine-themed festivals and immersive seafood experiences. The city's sustainable approach caters to digital nomads and global travellers seeking cultural adventures by the sea.
Pohang's dual strategy – honouring its steel legacy while embracing EV innovation and sustainable tourism – offers a model for legacy manufacturing hubs. For young global citizens and entrepreneurs, it's a story of transformation and opportunity in today's green-tech economy.
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South Korea's steel hub of Pohang turns to EV materials and tourism
cgtn.com
