Aerospace Statistics to Undergo Full Overhaul for the New Space Era... Special Classification System Introduced for the First Time

Capturing Satellite-Based Services and Space Exploration
Enhancing the Precision of Policies and Industry Surveys

The existing industrial statistics system, which had failed to accurately reflect the structure and trends of the aerospace industry, will undergo a complete overhaul to align with the New Space era. For the first time, a dedicated statistical classification system will be introduced, encompassing new industry sectors such as satellite-based services and space exploration.

The Space Agency and the National Data Agency jointly announced the establishment of the "Aerospace Industry Special Classification," which will take effect starting January 28.

Infographic of the Aerospace Industry Special Classification System. Provided by the Space Agency

Limitations of Manufacturing-Centered Statistics: "The Reality of the Industry Remains Unseen"

Until now, the aerospace industry has relied on the Korean Standard Industrial Classification (KSIC) without a dedicated special classification. The existing classification system, designed around aircraft and component manufacturing, has been criticized for its inability to capture the rapidly expanding New Space industry, which now includes satellite-based services, space exploration, and ground equipment.

In particular, as the surveys on the space industry and the aviation manufacturing industry are being integrated, there have been widespread calls from industry, academia, research, and government for a new statistical standard that reflects changes in industrial structure.

In response, since last year, the Space Agency has collaborated with the National Data Agency, the Korea Aerospace Industries Association, the Korea Aerospace Research Institute, and others to develop a customized classification system that reflects the unique characteristics of the aerospace industry.

The new special classification features a four-tier structure, consisting of 2 major categories, 13 mid-level categories, 42 minor categories, and 89 detailed categories, comprehensively covering both the space industry and the aviation manufacturing industry. While the previous classification focused on hardware such as aircraft and component manufacturing, the new system expands its scope to include satellite-based services, space exploration, and ground equipment, encompassing the entire industrial ecosystem.

Full Implementation Starting with the 2026 Industry Survey

The Space Agency plans to distribute the special classification guidelines and hold information sessions for industry professionals to minimize confusion in the field. In particular, starting with the 2026 "Space Industry and Aviation Manufacturing Industry Survey," the new classification system will be fully implemented to support the development of data-driven and precise policies.

Lee Hyohee, Acting Director of the Aerospace Industry Bureau, stated, "The establishment of this special classification serves as a milestone for more accurately assessing the current state of our aerospace industry," adding, "Based on more sophisticated statistics, we will implement customized support policies that can be felt directly in the field."

Details of the Aerospace Industry Special Classification can be found on the statistical classification portal of the National Data Agency and on the Space Agency's website.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.