Key Takeaways
- LG Group is adapting its commercial technologies for use in space, building on its existing capabilities in batteries, sensors, communication modules, and artificial intelligence.
- The company is working with local startups, such as Unmanned Exploration Laboratory, to test its technologies in space aboard South Korea’s Nuri rocket.
- LG’s approach to the space sector is cautious and results-driven, with a focus on early-stage testing and repeat validation cycles to build up a proven record of technologies that have performed well in orbit.
- The company aims to expand its presence in the space sector after 2030, scaling up verified technologies to support national and global space projects, including Korea’s lunar economy initiative.
Introduction to LG’s Space Ambitions
Space is no longer out of reach, and LG Group sees it as a logical extension of its existing capabilities. The company is preparing for a clearly emerging market by building on what it already does well, rather than chasing flashy goals. According to Chung Sue-hyun, president of LG Sciencepark, LG is applying its established strengths in batteries, sensors, communication modules, and artificial intelligence to a new environment defined by vacuum, radiation, wide temperature swings, and constant vibration. These technologies are now being adapted to operate reliably in space, with the goal of creating a proven record of technologies that have performed well in orbit.
Partnerships and Collaborations
LG is working with Unmanned Exploration Laboratory, a local startup and Korea’s only private lunar rover developer, to send hardware into space aboard South Korea’s Nuri rocket. In the fourth Nuri launch last month, a camera module was sent up, and the next launch, slated for June, will include a battery cell and communication antenna – all repurposed from off-the-shelf products originally built for use on Earth. This is the first case in Korea where mass-produced, commercial-grade tech is being sent into orbit for testing, highlighting LG’s cautious and results-driven approach to new industries. The company is also partnering with other startups, such as AI chipmaker FuriosaAI, and has brought in early-stage companies like Artblood and Found Objet through its Superstart open innovation platform.
The Role of LG Sciencepark
Much of the coordination for LG’s space-related activities is happening at LG Sciencepark, the group’s central research and development hub. The site helps connect affiliates in electronics, chemicals, and telecom, identifying shared opportunities and collecting performance data to guide longer-term planning. According to Chung, space is not something a single affiliate can pursue alone, emphasizing the need for collaboration across the group. LG Sciencepark’s role is to create opportunities, guide participation, and move forward at a pace that fits each unit. The work ties into LG Chairman Koo Kwang-mo’s "ABC" vision, a strategy centered on artificial intelligence, biotechnology, and clean technology.
Previous Experience and Future Plans
This isn’t LG’s first brush with space. Back in 2016, LG Energy Solution was chosen by the US National Aeronautics and Space Administration to supply lithium-ion batteries for astronaut suits – a small but essential part of their life-support systems. Though limited in scope, the project gave the company a foothold in space-related work and helped lay the groundwork for what comes next. Looking ahead, LG aims to expand its presence in the space sector after 2030 by scaling up verified technologies that could support national and global space projects, including Korea’s lunar economy initiative led by the Korea Aerospace Administration. Alongside Unmanned Exploration Laboratory, LG is also preparing for a longer-term lunar mission in 2032 based on findings from the current test campaigns.
Conclusion and Future Prospects
According to Chung, space represents the next stage for LG’s long-standing mission of supporting everyday life. The company will extend that role beyond Earth, once the technologies are ready. With its cautious and results-driven approach, LG is well-positioned to make a significant impact in the space sector. By adapting its commercial technologies for use in space and partnering with local startups, LG is taking a step-by-step approach to establishing itself as a major player in the industry. As the company continues to test and validate its technologies, it is likely to play an increasingly important role in supporting national and global space projects, including Korea’s lunar economy initiative.
