Kumho Petrochemical aims to turn crisis into opportunity with innovative R&D, investments
Published: 06 Mar. 2026, 11:21
Kumho Petrochemical is seeking to turn crisis into opportunity with a shift to a high value-added business structure in the face of a decrease in global supply and increased competitiveness with an enhanced portfolio built on a deep analysis of the changing market and investment in research and development with a customer-tailored approach.
![Kumho Petrochemical’s Ulsan Synthetic Rubber Plant [KUMHO PETROCHEMICAL]](https://koreaseafood.online/data/photo/2026/03/06/ff54a587-ac89-45b6-9c22-eee0dfa8d653.jpg)
The company is focusing on strengthening its competitiveness in solution styrene-butadiene rubber (SSBR) tires, which is gaining traction as a key material in EVs for its ability to reduce tire abrasion and enhance efficiency and durability, known for decreasing carbon emissions and increasing energy efficiency. Kumho Petrochemical is set to produce 35,000 tons of SSBR with the aim of operating a facility for production in the first quarter of the year. The tires are highly rated for EVs, which are affected by a heavier curb weight particularly in accelerating and braking.
Kumho Mitsui Chemicals is moving to secure competitiveness in long-term solutions, with a recent announcement of investment to improve efficiency in manufacturing methylene diphenyl diisocyanate (MDI) to add 100,000 tons of capacity to the 200,000 tons made in 2024. The project is expected to secure a leading position in the MDI market based on the company’s technology and strategic approach to managing production costs.
Kumho Polychem, meanwhile, built new lines for ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM) production last year to boost its capacity by 70,000 tons to 310,000 tons per year. EPDM can withstand extreme conditions compared to other synthetic rubber products, making it suitable for various industries such as mobility and shipping. The affiliate is also aiming to enhance competitiveness in production costs by expanding specialty products and renovating its facilities.
Kumho P&B Chemicals is turning to the East Asian and European markets for supply contracts to stabilize operations with product competitiveness amid a changing trade environment with tariffs and antidumping laws, particularly in value-added and highly profitable sectors with hydrophile epoxy products. D&K Chemtech, joint venture with Dongsung Chemical, is producing semi-incombustible phenolic foam boards under its “Hugreen” line, which was certified as a low-carbon material last year, making it an optimal choice as an environmentally friendly building material.
Kumho Resort is also enhancing its position, with the golf business department focusing on facility improvement and operation stability to offer an enjoyable experience and secure high brand value as a premium golf venue. The resort business team is expanding its offerings as it shifts to year-round leisure with its waterparks and caravan and “glamping” experiences at Kumho Seorak Resort as well as its yachts at Kumho Tongyeong Marina Resort.
As global markets shift and trends change, Kumho Petrochemical is proactively responding to ensure sustainable growth based on technology, quality and customer trust.
BY LEE DAHYUN [[email protected]]
Kumho Petrochemical’s Ulsan Synthetic Rubber Plant [KUMHO PETROCHEMICAL]
The company is focusing on strengthening its competitiveness in solution styrene-butadiene rubber (SSBR) tires, which is gaining traction as a key material in EVs for its ability to reduce tire abrasion and enhance efficiency and durability, known for decreasing carbon emissions and increasing energy efficiency. Kumho Petrochemical is set to produce 35,000 tons of SSBR with the aim of operating a facility for production in the first quarter of the year. The tires are highly rated for EVs, which are affected by a heavier curb weight particularly in accelerating and braking.
Kumho Mitsui Chemicals is moving to secure competitiveness in long-term solutions, with a recent announcement of investment to improve efficiency in manufacturing methylene diphenyl diisocyanate (MDI) to add 100,000 tons of capacity to the 200,000 tons made in 2024. The project is expected to secure a leading position in the MDI market based on the company’s technology and strategic approach to managing production costs.
Kumho Polychem, meanwhile, built new lines for ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM) production last year to boost its capacity by 70,000 tons to 310,000 tons per year. EPDM can withstand extreme conditions compared to other synthetic rubber products, making it suitable for various industries such as mobility and shipping. The affiliate is also aiming to enhance competitiveness in production costs by expanding specialty products and renovating its facilities.
Kumho P&B Chemicals is turning to the East Asian and European markets for supply contracts to stabilize operations with product competitiveness amid a changing trade environment with tariffs and antidumping laws, particularly in value-added and highly profitable sectors with hydrophile epoxy products. D&K Chemtech, joint venture with Dongsung Chemical, is producing semi-incombustible phenolic foam boards under its “Hugreen” line, which was certified as a low-carbon material last year, making it an optimal choice as an environmentally friendly building material.
Kumho Resort is also enhancing its position, with the golf business department focusing on facility improvement and operation stability to offer an enjoyable experience and secure high brand value as a premium golf venue. The resort business team is expanding its offerings as it shifts to year-round leisure with its waterparks and caravan and “glamping” experiences at Kumho Seorak Resort as well as its yachts at Kumho Tongyeong Marina Resort.
As global markets shift and trends change, Kumho Petrochemical is proactively responding to ensure sustainable growth based on technology, quality and customer trust.
BY LEE DAHYUN [[email protected]]
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