South Korea is leading the charge in the so-called “hydrogen economy.” Here are some compelling facts about South Korea’s commitment to hydrogen technology:

1. Fuel Cell Electric Vehicles (FCEVs): South Korea aims to become a global leader in the production and deployment of FCEVs. Hyundai, a South Korean car manufacturer launched the world’s first commercial FCEV (Tucson i ×35) in 2013. 
2. Hydrogen Consumption Goals: By 2040, South Korea plans to expand its annual hydrogen market from 130,000 tons to a whopping 5.26 million tons. The transportation sector is a key focus, with a target of nearly 3 million FCEVs, including domestically manufactured vehicles, fuel cell
trucks, and buses.
3. Hydrogen Refueling Stations (HRSs): The Hydrogen Energy Network (HyNet) was established to boost HRS infrastructure. South Korea aims to have 310 HRSs by 2022 and a staggering 1,200 by 2040.
4. Utility-Scale Fuel Cells: South Korea plans to deploy 15 gigawatts of utility-scale fuel cells by 2040, contributing significantly to clean energy generation. 
5. Economic Growth and Job Creation: South Korea sees hydrogen as a driver of economic growth, estimating a value of 43 trillion won ($43 billion) and
the creation of 420,000 new jobs.

6. Safety and Legal Framework: The Korean National Assembly passed the Hydrogen Economy Promotion and Hydrogen Safety Management Law in January 2020, laying the legal foundations for hydrogen promotion
and safety standards.