Dongwon Group Reopens Review of Potential HMM Acquisition

A renewed study is under way to examine whether a new attempt to acquire HMM is possible. According to local reports, the conglomerate’s leadership instructed management to re-evaluate the feasibility of another bid. This prompted a structured internal review aimed at understanding the current landscape.

Background on the Previous Attempt

The company participated in last year’s sale process with an offer of about KRW 6.2 trillion. Another bidder exceeded that proposal by roughly KRW 200 billion and was named the preferred buyer. However, the transaction collapsed in February, increasing expectations that a second chance to acquire HMM may eventually appear.

HMM Remains Under Creditor Oversight

The carrier is now back under the management of Korea Development Bank and the Korea Ocean Business Corporation. Despite this, it is not formally on the market. Creditors have not indicated when, or if, a new sale process will begin. This uncertainty makes early analysis important for any party considering a future bid.

Internal Analysis Gathers Pace

An internal team has been set up to study the numbers, explore possible deal structures and test funding plans. According to an official, the activity remains preliminary. It is not a formal task force but a study group focused on gathering information rather than preparing an active offer. The official also stressed that no final decision has been made.

Waiting for Market Signals

Since no sale timeline exists, the current effort centres on preparation. The group aims to understand potential options should creditors reopen the process. The earlier collapse of the sale has left space for renewed interest, and internal analysis is intended to ensure readiness if circumstances shift.