POSCO Holdings has inaugurated the Australia Critical Minerals R&D Lab in Perth, marking the first overseas resource-focused research institute established by a South Korean steelmaker. The facility aims to enhance technological competitiveness in steelmaking, secondary battery materials, and rare earth elements.

Research will focus on developing low-carbon steel production methods, cost-effective processing of lithium and nickel, and exploring advanced refining technologies. The lab will collaborate with local institutions, including AustCham Korea members Curtin University and Rio Tinto, as well as CSIRO, MRIWA, and BHP.

This initiative strengthens POSCO’s longstanding partnership with Australia in key mineral supply chains, including iron ore and lithium. AustCham Korea welcomes this development, highlighting the deepening Australia-Korea collaboration in critical minerals and advanced manufacturing.

For more: https://koreajoongangdaily.joins.com/news/2025-05-30/business/industry/Posco-marks-opening-of-Australia-Critical-Minerals-RD-Lab/2319835