Koryo Nobel Explosives has been acquired by Korea Investment & Securities Private Equity and Kiwoom PE

December 2024 — Koryo Nobel Explosives has been acquired by a consortium of Korea Investment & Securities Private Equity and Kiwoom Private Equity, gaining strong financial backing and support for its next stage of growth. As a leading South Korean manufacturer of industrial explosives and blasting solutions, Koryo Nobel is well positioned to expand its market presence and strengthen its operational capabilities under the new ownership.

Koryo Nobel Explosives is a leading manufacturer of industrial explosives and related blasting solutions in South Korea. It is the only company, aside from Hanwha, that manufactures both industrial explosives and chemical products, with over 30 years of industry experience. The company supplies a broad range of products used in mining, construction and infrastructure development, and is recognized for its strong safety record, technological expertise and long-standing relationships with key industrial clients. With advanced production capabilities and a nationwide distribution network, Koryo Nobel Explosives plays a critical role in supporting South Korea’s resource and construction sectors.

Korea Investment & Securities Private Equity is the private equity arm of Korea Investment & Securities, one of South Korea’s largest securities firms. The firm invests across a broad range of sectors, targeting both control and minority positions in companies with strong growth potential. Backed by deep financial resources and an extensive network, it supports portfolio companies with strategic guidance and long-term capital.

EUM Private Equity is a Korea-based investment firm focused on buy-outs and growth capital investments across the industrial, consumer and business services sectors. The firm actively partners with portfolio companies to drive operational improvement, strategic growth and long-term value creation. EUM is known for its disciplined investment approach and hands-on management support throughout the investment lifecycle.

Our role in the transaction

Oaklins’ team in Korea acted as the exclusive sell-side advisor to EUM Private Equity in the sale of Koryo Nobel Explosives. The team led the preparation of the sale process, managed financial and legal due diligence, engaged a wide range of domestic financial investors and supported the client throughout the transaction through to closing. Leveraging its deep understanding of the industrial sector and strong relationships within the Korean private equity community, the team helped generate significant investor interest and ensured a competitive process, resulting in the successful sale to a consortium of Korea Investment & Securities Private Equity and Kiwoom Private Equity.