Overview
KARI is South Korea's aerospace research institute, leading the country's rapidly expanding space programme. South Korea achieved independent orbital launch capability in 2022 with the successful second flight of the Nuri (KSLV-II) rocket — making it the seventh country to launch a satellite on a domestically developed rocket over 1 tonne.
South Korea's Danuri lunar orbiter (launched 2022 on a SpaceX Falcon 9) is the country's first deep-space mission, currently studying the Moon from orbit. KARI's roadmap includes a lunar lander by 2032, participation in NASA's Artemis programme, and development of next-generation reusable rockets.
Quick Facts
| Parameter | Detail |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Korea Aerospace Research Institute |
| Abbreviation | KARI |
| Country | South Korea |
| Headquarters | Daejeon, South Korea |
| Founded | 1989 |
| Head | Lee Sang-ryool (President) |
| Budget | ~$0.7B (2025) |
| Staff | ~1,000 |
| Crewed Capability | No (astronauts fly on partner vehicles) |
| Website | www.kari.re.kr |
Key Programmes
Nuri (KSLV-II)
South Korea's indigenous orbital launch vehicle. Three successful flights since June 2022. Capable of delivering 1.5 tonnes to 700 km SSO.
Danuri Lunar Orbiter
Korea Pathfinder Lunar Orbiter — studying lunar resources and surface from orbit since December 2022.
Korea Navigation System
KPS (Korean Positioning System) — planned regional navigation system with 7 satellites to provide independent positioning over the Korean Peninsula.
Lunar Landing Mission
Planned 2032 lunar landing mission, building on Danuri's success.
Launch Infrastructure
KARI launches from:
| Spaceport | Role |
|---|---|
| Naro Space Center | South Korea's launch site on Oenaro Island, South Jeolla Province |
Launch Vehicles
| Vehicle | Role |
|---|---|
| Nuri (KSLV-II) | Indigenous orbital launcher |