Revision of the Space Development Promotion Act to Simplify Launch Permits for Space Launch Vehicles

[Financial News] When a space launch vehicle is launched repeatedly, a blanket permit will be allowed, and a launch safety zone will be designated for safe launches.
The Korea AeroSpace Administration (KASA) said on the 11th that a partial revision of the Space Development Promotion Act, aimed at supporting the revitalization of domestic space launches and creating a safe environment for space development, was promulgated on the 11th and will take effect on Feb. 12, 2027.
The revision was introduced as the number of space launch vehicle launches increases and the private-sector space industry ecosystem expands. It is intended to streamline administrative procedures for repeated launches and establish a systematic safety management framework around launch sites.
First, the revision eases the administrative burden of launch permits by improving the approval process for repeated launches. If a person seeking to launch a space vehicle plans to launch the same type of vehicle from the same launch site at least twice within a five-year period, they will be able to apply to the KASA administrator for a blanket launch permit.
Until now, even repeated launches of the same vehicle required a separate launch permit for each launch. With blanket permits now possible for planned repeat launches, the government expects greater predictability in project execution and a lighter administrative burden.
The revision also establishes a launch safety zone system to strengthen the safety management framework. Under the amended law, the KASA administrator may designate areas around launch facilities as launch safety zones. Any activities such as constructing buildings or installing offshore structures within those zones must be discussed in advance with the administrator, helping ensure the safe launch and operation of space vehicles. The launch safety zones will be designated within the minimum necessary scope for safe launches, securing launch safety while minimizing the burden on local communities.
The system for responding to space launches for national security purposes has also been improved. Space launch vehicles launched for national security reasons may be approved by the Minister of National Defense, allowing for a swift response to launches that are urgent or require security-related handling.
Oh Tae-seok, head of KASA, said, "This revision of the Space Development Promotion Act lays the institutional foundation for rationalizing launch procedures and strengthening the safety management system in response to the era of private space launches." He added, "KASA will continue to improve the system to create a safe space development environment that the public can trust."

[email protected] Yeon Ji-an Reporter