South Korea to Launch Hydrogen Train by 2028 to Lead Market

South Korea has announced plans to introduce a Hydrogen Train by 2028, aiming to secure a competitive edge in the growing global hydrogen rail market projected to reach $26.4 billion by 2035. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Korail will manage the $23 million project, which includes building a two-car hydrogen train by 2027 and establishing the required legal and operational infrastructure. Officials plan to set international standards in hydrogen-based mobility.

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Hydrogen Train Will Deliver Efficiency and Long Range

The Hydrogen Train will use fuel cell technology and distributed traction. It will reach 150 km/h and travel over 600 km on a single charge, with a peak power output of 1.2 MW.

Its energy efficiency will be twice that of diesel trains. It also eliminates the need for electrification, which currently makes up 18% of standard double-track line costs, according to the government.

Hydrogen Train Technology Gains Ground with Local Orders

Hyundai Rotem received a major order in 2024 for 34 H2 hydrogen trams from Daejeon. Deliveries are scheduled from 2026 to 2028, reinforcing South Korea’s push toward clean transportation.

Through strategic investment and innovation, South Korea aims to become a leader in hydrogen-powered rail transport. The Hydrogen Train project represents a key milestone in achieving that goal.

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