A research team led by Dr. Sung Mook Choi of the Korea Institute of Materials Science has made a groundbreaking advancement in hydrogen production technology in South Korea. They have developed a one-step electrode fabrication process for anion exchange membrane water electrolysis, simplifying the manufacturing process significantly. By using a one-step hot-pressing method, cobalt hydroxide is converted into a cobalt oxide catalyst, creating a uniform catalyst layer that enhances hydrogen production efficiency and durability during continuous operation. The team's meticulous control over the cobalt hydroxide slurry conditions, temperature, and pressure allowed them to fabricate a catalyst layer with uniform oxide particles, leading to the successful creation of a membrane electrode assembly incorporating an anion exchange membrane and a hydrogen evolution catalyst. The stability and performance of this electrode were confirmed in a commercial-scale water electrolysis cell. The research team's efforts align with the global trend towards green hydrogen production, with projections indicating a significant increase in production capacity by 2030. In Korea, there is a focus on developing megawatt-level water electrolysis systems by 2024 to pave the way for commercialization by 2030. This technological advancement not only aims to boost hydrogen production efficiency but also intends to localize water electrolysis technology and secure a prominent position in the international market. Dr. Sung Mook Choi highlighted the potential of this technology to enable mass production of anion exchange membrane water electrolysis, thus reducing unit costs significantly. With support from the Korean government and the Korea Institute of Materials Science, this research paves the way for a more sustainable and efficient hydrogen production process, potentially reshaping the global landscape in this field.