Japanese shipping group K Line has been named as the party behind a newbuilding contract worth $494 million for a pair of LNG carriers to be built at Samsung Heavy Industries, according to industry reports. Details of the vessels, including capacity and delivery schedule, have not been disclosed. The order adds to a wave of LNG carrier contracting activity at South Korean yards, which continue to dominate the global orderbook for gas carriers amid sustained demand for liquefied natural gas transport capacity. K Line operates one of the largest LNG carrier fleets among Japanese owners, supporting long-term charter contracts tied to energy supply agreements across Asia. Samsung Heavy Industries remains one of the principal builders of LNG carriers worldwide, competing closely with other major Korean and Chinese shipyards for orders as owners seek to expand capacity to meet growing seaborne LNG trade. Further confirmation of the contract terms, including the exact value breakdown and shipyard delivery timeline, is expected as the companies involved release formal statements. The deal underscores continued investor confidence in LNG shipping despite broader uncertainty in global newbuilding markets.