Korea Expands Hydrogen Forklift Deployment Program in Jeju
4. June 2026South Korea is advancing the adoption of hydrogen forklifts through a new support initiative in Jeju Province, reinforcing efforts to reduce emissions from industrial and construction equipment. The program forms part of a broader transition toward zero-emission machinery and is designed to lower particulate matter and greenhouse gas emissions while improving the carbon footprint of worksite operations.
Jeju Province announced that it will allocate approximately KRW 420 million in 2026 to support the purchase of 12 zero-emission forklifts, including two hydrogen-powered units and ten electric models. The selected applicants will receive financial assistance based on the order in which applications are submitted. Hydrogen drives as used for such forklifts usually require KGS certification in order to be approved for import and sale in Korea.
Hydrogen and Electric Forklift Support Measures
Under the program, two 3-ton hydrogen forklift models manufactured by Doosan Bobcat Korea are eligible for support. Each hydrogen forklift can receive a subsidy of approximately KRW 160 million. According to the announcement, only ten hydrogen forklifts have previously been deployed nationwide, including units supplied in Incheon, Chungju, and Ulsan, highlighting the early stage of market adoption.
The electric forklift segment covers 29 eligible models ranging from 2.5-ton to 9-ton capacity. These models are supplied by HD Hyundai Site Solutions and Clark Material Handling Asia. Depending on the specific model, financial support ranges from approximately KRW 4 million to KRW 25 million per unit.
Eligible models and subsidy levels can be verified through Korea’s integrated zero-emission vehicle information platform. Applications for purchase support must be submitted through the relevant manufacturer or importer when acquiring approved zero-emission construction machinery.
Regulatory Significance and Market Access Considerations
The Jeju initiative reflects South Korea’s wider policy objective of replacing conventional internal-combustion equipment with cleaner alternatives. As authorities continue promoting hydrogen technologies and electrification across industrial sectors, manufacturers and importers of material-handling equipment may encounter increasing opportunities in the Korean market.
For hydrogen-powered forklifts, compliance with applicable Korean safety and technical requirements remains an important consideration. KGS certification, where required, plays a key role in demonstrating conformity with national gas safety regulations and supporting market access for hydrogen-related equipment.
Jeju officials stated that the province is pursuing a dual strategy of applying emission-reduction measures to existing equipment while accelerating the adoption of zero-emission machinery for new deployments. The program also supports the province’s long-term vision of achieving a low-carbon environment and improving local air quality through expanded use of clean industrial technologies.
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