Busan, South Korea's maritime transport hub, has been selected as part of a government initiative to develop core technologies and market an automated smart port logistics network that will speed up cargo delivery using autonomous equipment.

To improve productivity and security, smart ports use artificial intelligence, big data, the Internet of Things (IoT), and blockchain. Using connected equipment like remote control cranes and autonomous cargo loaders, smart port loading is automated.

Busan's southern port city said the Ministry of Science and ICT had chosen to join a team that consists of nine port authority bodies.

For five years, the project will require 14.2 billion won ($11.8 million).

Busan, some 326 kilometers (202 miles) southeast of Seoul, is undergoing digital transformation to convert its old smart facilities into connected facilities. 

A terminal-to-terminal blockchain cargo transit system was introduced for real-time tracking and handling of shipments.

In the crowded port, cargo information has not been exchanged between carriers and shippers.

Blockchain uses virtual ledgers distributed to each user for real-time monitoring of changes in the data. Smuggling at ports and logistics centers can be stopped using blockchain systems.

Maritime Business World