Korea has traditionally low use of TBM tunneling. Korean construction companies specialized and furthered NATM technology. Most tunnels use NATM technology. In last years there is a push toward mechanized tunneling with use of Tunnel Boring Machines (TBM). Encouraged by Korean government and also my impression by Korean Tunneling and Underground Space Association. TBM method considered more expensive than NATM but safer in urban areas compared to NATM with explosives.

Construction company HOBAN is known from its big housing projects with with apartment blocks. HOBAN image likely to change in near future. Company already have many TBM tunneling projects completed. This will increase more in coming years.

HOBAN has been very active in rock gripper TBM market (one of 3 most used in Korea TBM market with EPB and Slurry also).  One is recent order for gripper TBM construction on the 5th section of GTX A line. Hoban also said to signed on 29 January 2020 an agreement with Germany's Herrenknecht. Hoban and Herrenknecht together will develop a domectic Tunnel Boring Machine suitable for Korean construction conditions and ground conditions. Herrenknecht is the biggest tunnel boring machine manufacturer in world. Herrenknecht already provide training for Hoban for tunneling equipment.

Enghournal of Korea write Hoban is planning not to limit itself to Gripper TBM use but increase shield TBM use to enter subway, railroad and road, energy conveyence tunnels where TBM orders increase.