South Korean government said on Monday that South Korean companies are planning to increase overseas investment on energy development projects this year by over 20 percent.

According to the Ministry of Knowledge Economy, about US$7 billion is expected to be invested in developing energy sources this year, up 22.8 percent from the US$5.7 billion spent in 2008.

Local companies believe that the current financial instability and economic challenges provide a "right" opportunity for investment, the ministry said.

According to the ministry, US$5.2 billion will be spent in the oil and gas energy development projects while US$1.8 billion will be invested in developing major mineral resources including copper and coal.

The ministry said it would provide diverse financial support to companies through state-run financial institutions.

The ministry said it would accelerate efforts to purchase stakes in global oil fields in return for providing world-class drill ships and other shipbuilding technology to oil-producing countries.

South Korea secured a total of 71 energy development projects worldwide through joint efforts with other nations in 2008, according to the ministry.

(Xinhua News Agency January 5, 2009)