1. What Happened? – HJ Heavy Industries’ 2025 Semi-Annual Performance Analysis

HJ Heavy Industries achieved a turnaround in the first half of 2025. While sales slightly decreased year-on-year to 917.8 billion won, operating profit reached 10.793 billion won, marking a return to profitability. This is attributed to increased sales of special vessels in the shipbuilding sector and improved cost management in the construction sector.

2. Why the Return to Profit? – Analyzing Positive Factors

  • Return to operating profit: Raises expectations for business normalization.
  • Strong special vessel business: Robust performance in naval vessels and official vessels, coupled with strengthening IMO environmental regulations, are positive factors.
  • Construction sector technological prowess: Securing competitiveness in social infrastructure and plant projects fosters expectations for stable orders.
  • Increased defense budget: Projected to positively impact the naval vessel business.

3. Nevertheless… – Negative Factors and Risks

  • High debt ratio: The high debt ratio of 564.98% highlights the urgent need to secure financial soundness.
  • Construction sector risks: Uncertainties exist in the construction sector, including rising costs, construction delays, and risks associated with major projects.
  • External environment risks: Susceptible to the influence of external factors such as exchange rate fluctuations and potential slowdown in the construction market.

4. So, What Should We Do? – Action Plan for Investors

Investing in HJ Heavy Industries requires caution. While the return to profit is positive, the high debt ratio and risks in the construction sector should not be overlooked. The growth potential of the shipbuilding division and the potential of the special vessel business are attractive, but it’s crucial to monitor volatility stemming from changes in the macroeconomic environment. A prudent approach is to monitor improvements in financial structure and profitability in the construction sector, considering investment from a long-term perspective.