Busan Offshore Wind Power is targeting May 2027 to begin construction of the 99 MW Dadaepo offshore wind project off Busan, South Korea, as the developer approaches the final stages of permitting and works to secure construction contracts and project financing.
The fixed-bottom wind farm will be built approximately 3–5 km off Dadaepo Port in Busan’s Saha District. It will feature ten 9.9 MW wind turbines supplied by Doosan Enerbility, with commercial operations planned for 2030.
The development was selected in South Korea’s public-led fixed-price wind power auction in 2025. Korea Southern Power (KOSPO) is preparing to take an equity stake in the project and is expected to manage operations and maintenance for 25 years after commissioning.
Final Permits and Construction Arrangements
The developer has completed several regulatory procedures, including a maritime traffic safety assessment in February 2023 and a sea area utilization impact assessment in July 2025.
According to local media reports, the project is now preparing for its final public waters occupancy and use permit, one of the remaining requirements before construction can proceed.
Negotiations are also underway to select an engineering, procurement, construction and installation (EPCI) contractor, with an agreement targeted for late March 2027.
Project financing is being arranged by Shinhan Bank and Hana Bank as joint financial arrangers. The developer is aiming to reach financial close in the first half of 2027, subject to outstanding permitting, grid connection and contractual requirements.
In October 2026, KOSPO sought administrative cooperation from the Busan Metropolitan Government to support the project’s development. The utility also reported ongoing discussions with military authorities regarding regulatory approvals.
Community Support and Opposition
Local participation remains a central issue for the project.
A developer-commissioned survey of 1,010 Saha District residents in May 2026 found that 56.7% supported the development, while 26.7% opposed it and 16.6% expressed a neutral position.
The developer has signed a cooperation agreement with a fisheries committee representing 17 fishing communities affiliated with the Busan fisheries cooperative. It has also established a consultation structure involving residents, fishing representatives and local authorities.
However, opposition has continued. A local residents’ opposition group has submitted signatures and petitions from more than 7,000 people to six government and administrative bodies.
Concerns include possible restrictions on fishing operations and vessel movements, as well as the visual impact of offshore turbines, noise and potential changes to the marine environment.
Supporters have pointed to opportunities for local employment, tourism and revenue-sharing arrangements. Fishing representatives have nevertheless acknowledged that the development could affect existing fishing activities.
Local Employment and Operational Plans
Busan Offshore Wind Power is preparing plans to recruit and train local workers, including young people from Saha District, for future wind farm operations.
The company has signed a memorandum of understanding with Dong-A University to support workforce development. It is also considering the use of physical artificial intelligence technologies in operating the wind farm.
The developer is pursuing arrangements for local businesses to participate in the project and for residents and fishing communities to receive benefits associated with the development.
The planned May 2027 construction start remains dependent on securing the outstanding approvals, finalizing the EPCI contract and completing project financing.
Commercial operations are targeted for 2030.
