SK picglobal is preparing to resume operations at its Propylene Oxide (PO) plant in Ulsan, South Korea, following a planned maintenance turnaround. A source in South Korea confirmed that the facility, which was taken offline on August 13, 2025, is expected to return to production by early October.
The Ulsan-based plant has an annual production capacity of 130,000 mt, making it a significant contributor to regional PO supply. Market participants indicate that the scheduled restart will be closely monitored by downstream industries, as propylene oxide is a critical intermediate used in the manufacture of polyurethanes, surfactants, and other specialty chemicals.
The maintenance period has temporarily tightened regional availability, prompting some buyers to secure alternative supply sources in anticipation of reduced volumes. However, industry analysts suggest that the early October restart could ease concerns over extended shortages, particularly as demand is expected to pick up in the final quarter of the year when construction, coatings, and consumer goods sectors typically see stronger offtake.
South Korea remains a key hub for propylene oxide production in Asia, and the resumption of SK picglobal’s operations is likely to have an immediate influence on market sentiment. Traders note that while regional supply constraints have supported firmer pricing in recent weeks, the plant’s return could bring some downward pressure if inventories are rebuilt swiftly.
The timing of the restart will also coincide with shifting dynamics in the upstream propylene market, which has largely remained stable despite fluctuations in crude oil prices. Any delay in the restart could prolong tightness and keep prices elevated, but an on-schedule resumption is expected to restore balance to both domestic and regional markets.
With the Ulsan plant positioned strategically to serve both local and export demand, the restart will be closely watched by stakeholders across Asia’s chemical value chain. The company’s ability to bring the facility back online efficiently will be a key factor in stabilizing supply and meeting end-user requirements as the industry enters the last quarter of 2025.
