This study aims to propose a strategic plan for Busan to emerge as a hub for sea-air multimodal transport amidst the changing global logistics environment. The 21st-century logistics industry is experiencing a global surge in digitalization, automatio...
This study aims to propose a strategic plan for Busan to emerge as a hub for sea-air multimodal transport amidst the changing global logistics environment. The 21st-century logistics industry is experiencing a global surge in digitalization, automation, and eco-friendliness, leading to a growing need for integrated logistics systems. The COVID-19 pandemic has exposed the vulnerabilities of existing supply chains and further emphasized the importance of building a stable and efficient logistics system. However, despite being a global maritime logistics hub, the Port of Busan's sea-air multimodal transport capabilities are being hampered by the limitations of Gimhae Airport's air cargo handling capabilities. Therefore, the Gadeok New Airport is considered a key foundation for Busan's advancement into a global multimodal logistics hub and requires strategic review. This study aims to develop a plan for establishing a sea-air multimodal transport hub in Busan, focusing on the construction of the Gadeok New Airport. This study analyzes international case studies and prior research, and conducts a survey of expert perceptions. This study, centered on a literature review and portfolio analysis, begins by examining the concepts of intermodal and air-sea intermodal transport, their current operational status at home and abroad, examples of major overseas intermodal transport hubs, and related research. Based on international case studies and literature, five evaluation factors and 17 sub-factors are identified. A survey and portfolio analysis are then conducted to assess the feasibility of establishing a sea-air intermodal transport hub in Busan. The survey targets various stakeholders, including logistics companies, terminal operators, shippers and shipping companies and the importance and expected benefits are analyzed. The results are categorized into key factors, opportunity factors, subordinate factors, and overvalued factors, and policy implications are derived. This paper is organized into five chapters, systematically presenting the theoretical background, research and analysis methods, empirical analysis, conclusions, and future tasks. The survey and portfolio analysis results of this study revealed that maritime and port logistics professionals generally viewed the construction of Gadeokdo New Airport and the establishment of a sea-air multimodal transport hub in Busan positively, particularly anticipating an increase in sea and air cargo volumes, particularly from China and Japan. Analysis of the evaluation factors revealed the need for a strategic attraction policy linked to the expansion of the Busan New Port hinterland complex and the establishment of a Northeast Asian multimodal logistics strategy centered on sea and air. This study suggested the potential for Busan to establish a sea-air multimodal transport hub based on the Gadeokdo New Airport. However, the delay in the airport's opening and the ongoing challenges of safety and the environment pose limitations. Future research requires in-depth analysis of measures to ensure the stability of airport operations and a practical operational model for the multimodal transport system. Keywords: Gadeok New Airport, Busan New Port, multimodal logistics, Sea & Air Intermodal Transport, Portfolio Analysis