Comprehensive Guide to Major Industrial Complexes in Gyeongbuk and Entry Strategies (2026)

Gyeongsangbuk-do is the backbone of Korea's manufacturing industry. Pohang's steel, Gumi's electronics, Gyeongju's nuclear and automotive parts, Yeongcheon's defense and automotive — distinct industrial ecosystems have formed in each region. Industrial complexes form the backbone of these ecosystems.

According to the 5th Industrial Complex Master Plan (2026-2035) confirmed by the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy in 2026, Gyeongsangbuk-do's total industrial land area is set at 21.31 million ㎡. This represents a 3.55 million ㎡ (approximately 20%) increase from existing levels. Annual new demand is estimated at 2.131 million ㎡, meaning one 550,000 ㎡ industrial complex can be added each year. For companies planning to establish factories in Gyeongbuk region, new opportunities will continuously open over the next decade.

Let's examine the Gyeongju region specifically. Gyeongju's main industrial complexes are Gangdong Industrial Complex, Oedong Industrial Complex, and Myeonggye Industrial Complex. Gangdong Industrial Complex concentrates automotive parts and machinery industries, located 15 minutes by car from KTX Gyeongju Station with good transportation accessibility. The most notable achievement is investment attraction to Myeonggye Industrial Complex 3, where Taewoong Industries invested KRW 7.7 billion (15 employees) and Soo System invested KRW 4.8 billion (27 employees) in 2024, totaling KRW 12.5 billion investment and 42 employment positions.

Gyeongju is also the mecca of nuclear industry. Following the permanent shutdown of Wolsong Nuclear Unit 1 in 2019, Unit 2 reached its operational limit in September 2025, with Unit 3 scheduled for 2027. There are reasons why this change represents opportunity rather than crisis. The global nuclear decommissioning market is projected to grow from USD 6.792 billion in 2024 to USD 10.01 billion by 2035 (annual average 3.59%), and Gyeongju is positioning itself as Korea's nuclear decommissioning technology hub. Related equipment and technology companies are increasingly entering Gyeongju.

Pohang is the city of steel and new materials. The industrial ecosystem centered on POSCO is Korea's largest. Pohang Blue Valley Industrial Complex is emerging as a specialized industrial complex for marine bio and energy new industries, with increasing entry of secondary battery material companies. Gumi is a traditional powerhouse in electronics and IT industries, with Gumi Hi-Tech Valley actively attracting companies in semiconductors, displays, and secondary battery sectors.

The northern region e-mobility project is particularly noteworthy development in Gyeongju. This project, with over KRW 60 billion investment planned until 2030, aims to form a cluster of companies related to electric vehicle parts, batteries, and charging infrastructure. Additionally, Gyeongju Oedong Industrial Complex was selected for the 'Culture-Leading Industrial Complex' competition project, with large-scale renovation planned to improve aging facilities and create a foundation for attracting new industries.

If considering industrial complex entry, you can check real-time lot sales status, occupancy rates, and remaining sites for each industrial complex at the Korea Industrial Complex Corporation's Industrial Location Information Center (industryland.or.kr). The key to entry strategy is 'moving quickly when spots become available.' With permit preparations in advance, you can conclude entry contracts ahead of competitors when lot sales announcements are made.