ICEYE Korea was established in June 2026 and will initially focus on supporting Korean defense and intelligence customers seeking access to advanced intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities. The entity will also work with the country’s space and defense ecosystem through technology validation, supply-chain participation and talent development.
The agreement with Seoul National University sets out a framework for potential long-term cooperation in SAR Earth observation, small satellites, AI-based image analysis and autonomous satellite operations. The two sides will explore establishing an SNU-ICEYE Cooperation Center for research, education and satellite operations.
ICEYE and SNU also plan to evaluate joint research and development opportunities covering satellite systems, SAR processing, AI analytics and next-generation space technologies. The collaboration includes potential use of ICEYE SAR data for disaster response, maritime surveillance, environmental monitoring, and defense and security applications.
The parties will also explore education programs, internships, graduate research and exchange opportunities aimed at building space-sector talent in South Korea. The collaboration is intended to connect with government and industry stakeholders in the wider space ecosystem and support development of the country’s domestic SAR industry.
“Korea is an important market for us in Asia, and establishing ICEYE Korea marks the next step in our long-term commitment to the country,” said Rafal Modrzewski, CEO and Co-founder of ICEYE. “With Eric leading our team on the ground, we’re well positioned to deepen our work with government, industry and academia to support Korea’s ambitions in sovereign space and defense capability.”
Rhee will lead ICEYE’s business strategy in South Korea and work with defense, government and commercial stakeholders across mission satellites, Earth observation data and satellite-based solutions. His role is focused on building sovereign space and operational capability for the country.
“Korea is where my family’s roots are, and contributing to the country’s safety and resilience has always mattered deeply to me,” Rhee said. “Leading ICEYE in Korea gives me the chance to pursue that vision alongside a growing team whose commitment aligns with where ICEYE is headed. I look forward to strengthening our partnerships here and delivering capabilities that truly matter.”
Rhee brings more than 15 years of experience across defense, aerospace and space systems. His background includes service as a Field Artillery Section Chief in the U.S. Army with combat experience in Afghanistan, and he holds a B.S. in Management and an MBA in Finance from Pepperdine University.
