The winds of change are blowing stronger than ever across South Korea’s coastline, as Vestas, the Danish wind turbine giant, clinches two significant contracts that promise to reshape the nation’s renewable energy landscape. On December 30, 2025, Vestas announced its landmark 390MW contract for the Shinan-Ui offshore wind project in Jeollanam Province, marking a pivotal step not only for the company but for South Korea’s ambitious clean energy transition. That same day, Vestas also unveiled a separate order for the Gokseong Green Wind Power Project, underscoring its growing footprint in Asia’s burgeoning wind sector.
The Shinan-Ui project, a first-of-its-kind utility-scale offshore wind development in South Korea, will see Vestas supply 26 of its cutting-edge V236-15.0MW offshore wind turbines. According to Power Technology, these turbines represent some of the most advanced technology in the industry, having gained type certification in 2023 and already racking up more than 9GW of firm orders globally since their launch. Deliveries for the Shinan-Ui project are set to begin in 2027, with commercial operations slated for 2028. In addition to supplying the turbines, Vestas has inked a 20-year service agreement, ensuring long-term support and maintenance for the offshore facility.
The project is spearheaded by Shinan-Ui Offshore Wind, a consortium that brings together several major players: Hanwha Ocean, SK Eternix, Korea Midland Power Co. (KOMIPO), Future Energy Fund, and Hyundai Engineering & Construction. The consortium’s ambition is clear: to set a new benchmark for Korea’s offshore wind industry by fully embracing global standards and the latest generation of wind technology. As Jong Hyun Son, head of Hanwha Ocean Eco Energy and Industrial EPC Division, told Power Technology, “Hanwha Ocean will take a leading role in the Korean offshore wind industry through the successful execution of the Shinan-Ui Offshore Wind Project.”
Son went on to highlight the project’s comprehensive approach, explaining, “The Shinan-Ui Project represents Korea’s first utility-scale offshore wind development to fully incorporate global standards, including the latest-generation offshore wind turbines, wind turbine installation vessels, offshore transformer stations, and onshore grid connection systems. We are pleased to partner with Vestas for the supply of cutting-edge wind turbine technology and value the strong local supply chain supporting foundations, cables, electrical components, and transportation and installation works.”
The scale and ambition of the Shinan-Ui project are hard to overstate. By integrating not just state-of-the-art turbines but also advanced installation and grid technologies, the consortium aims to set a precedent for future offshore wind projects in the region. The inclusion of a robust local supply chain is also notable, as it signals a commitment to fostering domestic expertise and economic growth alongside environmental progress.
For Vestas, the project marks its first offshore wind contract in South Korea—an important milestone as the company continues to expand its presence in Asia. Purvin Patel, President of Vestas Asia Pacific, expressed pride in the collaboration, stating, “We are proud to partner with Hanwha Ocean on this milestone project in South Korea and introduce our industry-leading V236-15.0 MW offshore wind turbines to South Korean waters. These turbines, featuring world-class technology, are already being deployed in their inaugural European projects, with production ramping up to enable large-scale global deployment. Vestas brings decades of offshore experience and together with our customers, we are committed to driving the large-scale deployment of offshore wind in South Korea and delivering clean, secure and homegrown energy for the country.”
While the Shinan-Ui project grabs headlines for its scale and innovation, it’s not the only feather in Vestas’ cap in South Korea. Also on December 30, 2025, Vestas announced a new order for the Gokseong Green Wind Power Project, a 43MW onshore wind farm. According to a news release from Vestas Asia Pacific, the order comes from DaeMyoung Energy Co., Ltd and consists of seven V162-6.2 MW turbines. Like the Shinan-Ui agreement, the Gokseong project includes a 20-year AOM5000 Service Agreement, with delivery planned for 2027 and commissioning set for 2028.
Vestas’ growing portfolio in South Korea is part of a broader global strategy. Earlier in December 2025, the company received seven turbine orders in Germany totaling 273MW, demonstrating its ability to serve diverse markets with tailored solutions. As the world’s leading installer of wind power—with more than 197 GW of turbines in 88 countries—Vestas leverages its vast experience, smart data capabilities, and an army of over 37,000 employees to deliver on its promise of sustainable energy solutions.
South Korea’s embrace of offshore wind is a relatively recent but rapidly accelerating phenomenon. The nation has set ambitious targets for renewable energy as it seeks to reduce its reliance on fossil fuels and combat climate change. Projects like Shinan-Ui and Gokseong are not just isolated ventures; they’re key pillars in a broader strategy to transform the country’s energy mix and ensure long-term energy security. The government’s support for utility-scale offshore wind developments reflects both environmental imperatives and a desire to boost domestic industry and job creation.
The V236-15.0MW turbine, at the heart of the Shinan-Ui project, stands out for its sheer scale and efficiency. With each unit capable of generating 15 megawatts of power, these turbines are designed for maximum output and reliability in challenging marine conditions. Their adoption in South Korea signals a willingness to invest in the latest technology and to set new standards for performance and sustainability in the region.
Industry observers note that the integration of advanced offshore wind turbines, installation vessels, transformer stations, and grid connection systems is essential for the long-term viability of large-scale wind projects. By adopting these best practices, South Korea is positioning itself as a leader in the Asia-Pacific renewable energy market—potentially unlocking new export opportunities and technological leadership down the line.
It’s also worth noting the ripple effects these projects are likely to have. The focus on local supply chains for foundations, cables, and other key components means that the benefits of these investments will be felt well beyond the immediate project sites. Local businesses, engineers, and construction workers stand to gain from the influx of expertise and capital, helping to build a more resilient and dynamic energy economy.
As the world races to decarbonize and meet ever-stricter climate targets, the story unfolding in South Korea offers a glimpse of what’s possible when public ambition meets private innovation. Vestas’ dual contracts in the country—spanning both offshore and onshore wind—underscore the company’s commitment to partnership, technological excellence, and the shared goal of a cleaner, more secure energy future.
With turbine deliveries set to begin in 2027 and commercial operations expected the following year, the next chapter in South Korea’s renewable energy journey is just over the horizon. The projects announced this December are more than just milestones for Vestas; they’re signals that the winds of change are gathering force, promising a brighter, greener future for the peninsula and beyond.
