K-UAV, export value exceeds 3.68 trillion KRW... Successfully enters 30 countries

Domestic drone exports overseas are experiencing rapid growth, and K-drones are increasingly gaining presence in the global market. According to the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport, from January to November this year, the total drone export value reached 36.8 billion KRW, a 58% increase compared to the same period last year.

This performance growth is not merely a one-time sale but the result of comprehensive exports of various models, technical services, and components. Among all export categories, complete drone units account for the highest at 84%, followed by drone-related services at 13%, parts at 2%, and software at 1%. Analysis indicates that as product lines diversify from vertical takeoff and landing aircraft to various mission models, inspection and filming drones, etc., the attention from countries with actual demand continues to rise.

Of particular note is that this year, the number of countries importing Korean drones has increased to 30, more than doubling from 13 last year. In terms of export scale, the United Arab Emirates, the United States, and Uzbekistan rank as the top three. The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport stated that this export expansion not only covers developed countries in North America and Europe but also strategically enters emerging markets in Asia and Africa, which is of great significance.

The background for this export expansion lies in the expansion of international cooperation and the promotion of local pilot projects. This year, the Ministry signed 59 business agreements with 29 countries and promoted 20 pilot projects in various nations. At the same time, technical exchanges are being conducted through drone roadshows in the US and Japan, and the establishment of a drone academy in Ghana. These efforts have laid a solid foundation for domestic companies to enter overseas markets.

The government plans to continue promoting the overseas expansion of K-drones next year. Kim, the aviation policy officer at the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport, stated that through the “Republic of Korea Drone Expo” and the “Global Drone Cooperation Conference” scheduled for 2026, domestic drones, components, and services will be officially showcased in strategic markets such as the US, further demonstrating the determination to expand exports.

This trend indicates that the technological independence and export competitiveness of the domestic drone industry are gradually entering a stable development stage. Especially if combined with the global demand for smart infrastructure, K-drones are expected to grow into a new generation of leading export industries in the future.