ports

South Korean Regional Carriers Post Strong Gains While Long-Haul Operators Struggle

South Korea's regional container operators reported double-digit operating profit growth for 2025, significantly outperforming the nation's major ocean carriers on long-haul routes. Sinokor, the country's largest privately owned container line, and affiliate Heung-A Line posted operating profit increases of 14% and 48% respectively. These gains were driven by cost reduction efforts and improved volumes on regional services. Namsung Shipping's revenue climbed 17% to $554 million, with operating profit nearly doubling to $52 million, bolstered by network expansion into Indonesia, Malaysia, and India. Smaller operators including CK Line, Pan Ocean's container division, and Pan-Continental Line also reported gains. In contrast, flagship carrier HMM saw 2025 revenue decline 7% to $7.5 billion, with operating profit falling 58% to $1 billion amid challenging long-haul market conditions.