Biofriends Inc. and Cheongmyeong Co. signed an MOU to build Korea’s first commercial-scale biogas-based biomethanol plant. This marks a key step toward full-scale eco-friendly fuel production using domestically produced biogas.
Biofriends had earlier studied the feasibility of producing 45,000 to 100,000 tons of biomethanol annually. Based on this, the company plans to build a plant that produces 60,000 to 80,000 tons each year. Biofriends will apply its synthesis gas conversion technology to add value to domestic biogas. The goal is to establish a stable, eco-friendly fuel supply chain.
This project supports the shift to low-carbon energy, especially in the shipping industry. The International Maritime Organization (IMO) is strengthening decarbonization rules, making biomethanol an attractive alternative fuel.
Some of the biomethanol will be turned into DME (Dimethyl ether). DME is a clean fuel that emits almost no SOx or NOx gases. It also reduces CO₂ emissions significantly. Its similar properties to LPG mean existing infrastructure can be used. When blended with LPG, DME can cut carbon emissions and help Korea reach its carbon neutrality targets.
Cheongmyeong’s CEO, Min-soo Na, said the company will keep expanding biogas facilities. They aim to recycle organic waste into renewable energy raw materials, supporting the climate goals. Biofriends’ CEO, WonJun Cho, highlighted the project’s use of Carbon Capture & Utilization (CCU) technology. This process captures methane and CO₂ from greenhouse gases to produce syngas, which is then converted into high-value clean fuel.
Cho emphasized that this is Korea’s first plant to use greenhouse gases to produce biomethanol on a commercial scale. He said the technology is competitive globally. He added that the plant’s success will go beyond technology validation. It will create new markets and lead decarbonization efforts in shipping and energy sectors, supporting ESG values and business growth.
