In the global development of the hydrogen industry, countries are exploring transition pathways suited to their own conditions. Korea released the Hydrogen Economy Roadmap of Korea, which clearly outlined its direction for transitioning to a hydrogen-based economy. Within this plan, the development of fuel cell passenger vehicles stands out, becoming one of the highlights of Korea’s hydrogen economy strategy.

Korea's hydrogen economy vision focuses on transforming the country from a fossil fuel-dependent nation into a major producer of clean hydrogen. The large-scale development of fuel cell passenger vehicles is a key pillar for realizing this vision. According to the 2040 targets, fuel cell passenger vehicles are particularly representative: Korea's cumulative target for fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEV) is 6.2 million units, including 2.9 million for domestic demand.  Among these, fuel cell passenger vehicles account for 5.9 million units, with 2.75 million intended for the domestic market, representing nearly 95% of the total  fuel cell electric vehicle plan and making this segment the absolute core. In parallel, Korea has outlined a clear international market strategy for its fuel cell electric vehicle industry, reflecting its intention to actively participate in the global fuel cell electric vehicle market through this key segment.

Behind this plan lies a clear logic in which the passenger vehicle market serves as a key driver of the hydrogen value chain. The widespread adoption of fuel cell passenger vehicles can effectively stimulate coordinated progress across upstream and downstream sectors, including hydrogen production, storage and transportation, as well as the construction of hydrogen refueling stations. According to the roadmap, Korea plans to have more than 1,200 hydrogen refueling stations by 2040, supporting a large-scale rollout of hydrogen mobility through a well-matched ecosystem.

The high share of fuel cell passenger vehicles in Korea’s 2040 hydrogen industry plan highlights their pivotal role in the country’s transition toward a hydrogen economy. The advancement of these initiatives may inject fresh momentum into the development of Korea’s hydrogen industry, while also providing a valuable reference for diverse applications and practices across the global hydrogen industry. 

#2026 International Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Vehicle Congress & Exhibition (FCVC 2026)