PanStar Line has been preliminarily selected to operate South Korea's first 3,000-TEU containership trial through the Northern Sea Route in 2026, reports Saint Petersburg's PortNews.

The Busan-based carrier was the sole applicant in a public selection process launched on 27 April and was chosen after a thorough review by an evaluation committee.

The round voyage is planned through the Northern Sea Route. The vessel is expected to qualify for a Polar Ship Certificate, with PanStar set to sign an implementation agreement with the organizing bodies following further discussions.

Once confirmed as the final operator, PanStar will be eligible for financial support from the Korea Shipping Association, preferential vessel financing from Korea Ocean Business Corp., and reductions in port facility charges.

This project is part of South Korea's effort to build operational experience in Arctic navigation and to test alternative maritime routes for export, import, and energy transport. The Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries' 2026 plan includes a Busan-Rotterdam trial by a domestic private shipping company in the second half of the year.

PanStar Line, led by Chief Executive Kim Jong-tae, is part of the PanStar group, whose activities include marine transport, cargo and passenger services, international logistics, storage, ship and crew management, and vessel technology.

Korea Ocean Business Corp. is a public shipping-finance institution providing support tools for the maritime sector, while the Korea Shipping Association is an industry organization involved in programs for domestic operators. The Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries oversees maritime policy, ports, fisheries, and ocean administration.