SemiVoice

September 21

• LG Electronics Educates Children and Youth on the Importance of Resource Circulation

  ➀ LG Electronics partnered with the Korea Environment Corporation and E-Cycle Governance to distribute 2,000 free educational books titled *Goodbye, Let’s Meet Again! The Story of Electronic Product Resource Circulation* to children, youth, special schools, and environmental centers, explaining the lifecycle of home appliances and proper disposal methods;

  ➁ The company donated 15 *LG CordZero AI Object Collection A9* vacuum cleaners, funded by its *Battery Return Campaign*, to *Yerimwon*, a residential facility for individuals with intellectual disabilities in Incheon;

  ➂ The *Battery Return Campaign*, which collects used batteries and parts for recycling in exchange for discounts, will run its second phase in October 2025, with drop-off options at LG service centers or designated collection points.

• LG AI Research Launches First 'Financial AI Agent' ExaOne-BI in Partnership with LSEG

  ➀ LG AI Research and London Stock Exchange Group (LSEG) jointly launched the financial AI agent 'ExaOne-BI', designed to autonomously perform data analysis, future predictions, and report generation without human intervention;

  ➁ The AI agent employs four specialized sub-agents (AI Journalist, Economist, Analyst, and Decision-Maker) collaborating to deliver predictive scores and market reports, which LSEG will commercialize as 'AEFS' products for global investors;

  ➂ This marks the first Korea-UK AI collaboration in finance, positioning ExaOne-BI as a pioneer in 'Agentic AI' to reshape business decision-making across industries.

• Samsung Electronics Launches 'The Moving Style' with Detachable Screen and Stand

  ➀ Samsung Electronics introduces 'The Moving Style,' a portable wireless screen with a detachable display and built-in kickstand, offering flexibility for desk, table, or floor use;

  ➁ Features include a 27-inch QHD 120Hz touchscreen, 3-hour battery life, and compatibility with Samsung TV Plus for free content access;

  ➂ Priced at 1.49 million KRW (~$1,100) with pre-orders starting September 22, it also offers AI subscription perks and premium services for 'AI All-in-One 2.0' subscribers.

• Yongin Semiconductor Cluster Eases Floor Area Ratio and Height Limits; Gimpo Yangchon 2 Industrial Complex Swiftly Approved

  ➀ Gyeonggi Province approved plans for the Yongin Semiconductor Cluster and Gimpo Yangchon 2 Industrial Complex, aiming to boost semiconductor competitiveness and regional economic balance;

  ➁ The Yongin cluster’s floor area ratio increased from 350% to 490%, with building height limits raised to 150m to expand production facilities and meet cleanroom demand;

  ➂ Gimpo Yangchon 2 will aggregate scattered SMEs, enhance logistics efficiency, and integrate ecological preservation to drive growth in northwest Gyeonggi.

September 20

• Samsung Electronics Sweeps IDEA Design Awards with 47 Wins in AI and Inclusive Design

  ➀ Samsung Electronics won 47 awards at IDEA 2025, including 2 Gold, 3 Silver, and 3 Bronze medals, showcasing leadership in AI-integrated and inclusive design;

  ➁ Gold awards highlighted its Mobile Design Visual Identity System for Galaxy devices and inclusive home appliance concepts for visually impaired users, emphasizing intuitive and accessible design;

  ➂ Notable entries included AI-driven products like the Galaxy Z Fold6/Flip6 and Smart Monitor M9, alongside modular living solutions and AI-powered building management systems.

• Chungnam Launches Preemptive Response Council for Steel Industry Crisis... Government and Private Sector Explore Industrial Solutions in Dangjin

  ❶ Chungnam Province established the 'Steel Industry Crisis Preemptive Response Council' with government officials and companies like Hyundai Steel, Dongkuk Steel, and KG Steel to address challenges such as global oversupply and carbon reduction pressures;

  ❷ The council aims to designate Dangjin City as a priority crisis response zone and submit an application to the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy by November 2025;

  ❸ Initiatives include transitioning business structures to achieve carbon neutrality while maintaining industrial competitiveness, with full support from local authorities and industry stakeholders.

• LX Semicon Embarks on Fostering Startups through Open Innovation

  ➀ LX Semicon announced investment of 14.5 billion KRW (~11 million USD) in the 'Startup Korea LX-BSK Open Innovation Fund' to support domestic startups;

  ➁ The 8-year joint fund with government and private partners focuses on AI-based system semiconductors and thermal management solutions;

  ➂ CEO Yoon-tae Lee emphasized strategic collaboration with promising ventures through open innovation ecosystem building.

• Coway's 'Icon Pro Water Purifier' Wins 2025 IDEA Design Award

  ➀ Coway's Icon Pro Water Purifier won the 2025 IDEA Design Award, recognized for its innovative design;

  ➁ The product features a full front touch LCD display, intuitive recipe mode for customized settings, and real-time system monitoring with maintenance alerts;

  ➂ Enhanced user convenience with sensor-guided maintenance steps and a focus on combining functional innovation with lifestyle-oriented design.

• Inometri Holds Mutual Growth Conference with Partners…“Strengthening Partnerships”

  ➀ Inometri hosted the '2025 Mutual Growth Conference' to enhance partnerships with suppliers through fair trade and ESG practices;

  ➁ The company shared ethical management policies and sustainable growth strategies, reinforcing trust and collaboration for future performance recovery driven by glass substrate and smartphone ventures;

  ➂ CEO Lee Gab-Soo emphasized plans to double technical and mass-production capabilities while building long-term partnerships.

• BodyFriend Measures Leg Length with 'Light'... Registers Next-Generation Technology Patent

  ➀ BodyFriend developed a new optical sensor system using light and slit mechanisms to detect leg length in massage chairs, registering a patent for the technology;

  ➁ The method offers higher precision than traditional pressure/mechanical systems, enabling personalized massage experiences by accurately tracking joint positions;

  ➂ The technology enhances BodyFriend's RoboWalking Technology, improving massage accuracy and overall user experience.

September 19

• BASF Launches Low-Conductivity Coolant for Electric Vehicles

  ➀ BASF introduced 'Glysantin Electrified', a low-conductivity coolant (LECC) tailored for EV battery systems to enhance safety;

  ➁ The coolant maintains stable low electrical currents when exposed to high-voltage components, minimizing decomposition and hydrogen generation, thereby reducing risks of overheating, fires, and explosions;

  ➂ Production has commenced at BASF's Shanghai Pudong plant in China.

• EcoPro Establishes Integrated Cathode Material Plant in Indonesia... Enters Phase 2 Investment

  ➀ EcoPro completes its 700 billion KRW (≈$538 million) investment in four nickel refineries in Indonesia, securing annual nickel MHP supply for about 600,000 electric vehicles;

  ➁ Plans vertical integration in Indonesia with a new industrial complex (IGIP) for precursor, cathode material, and battery cell production to reduce costs by 20–30%;

  ➂ Expects average annual profits of 180 billion KRW (≈$138 million) by 2030 through equity gains and MHP sales.

• Hanmi Semiconductor Establishes Artificial Intelligence Research Headquarters

  ➀ Hanmi Semiconductor reorganized its software research division into an AI research headquarters, expanding its specialized workforce to 150 employees to integrate AI into semiconductor equipment for process optimization, predictive analysis, and automation;

  ➁ The company developed AI-powered automation technology (FDS), reducing manual setup time from 8 hours to 35 minutes, and plans to apply AI to next-gen equipment like HBM4 manufacturing tools;

  ➂ Hanmi will expand AI applications company-wide, including AI assistants for equipment history analysis and operational diagnostics.

• Korea Carbon Nano Industry Association Conducts Advanced Nanomaterial Education for Masters and PhD Students

  ➀ The Korea Carbon Nano Industry Association has launched specialized education programs for Masters and PhD students to cultivate talent in advanced nanomaterials, focusing on practical training with cutting-edge equipment;

  ➁ Programs include hands-on experiences in nanomaterial synthesis (e.g., carbon nanotubes, MOFs), battery technology, and 3D composite design, collaborating with institutions like the Korea Institute of Materials Science and Sejong University;

  ➂ The initiative addresses the industry-academia gap by equipping students with skills in nanomaterial analysis (AFM, Raman spectroscopy) and job readiness through career development workshops.

• LG Electronics and SK Innovation Target Solving Power and Heat Issues in AI Data Centers

  ➀ LG Electronics and SK Innovation signed an MOU to jointly develop integrated energy and cooling solutions for AI data centers, combining LG's cooling technologies with SK Innovation's energy management systems;

  ➁ LG will supply air/liquid cooling solutions, while SK Innovation provides AI-based energy management, ESS, and peak power reduction designs;

  ➂ The collaboration aims to develop next-gen systems for automatic cooling control, waste heat utilization, and global expansion of packaged energy services (EaaS).

• First Major Economic Sector Job Fair for Large and Small Companies in 15 Years to Be Held

  ➀ A large-scale job fair co-hosted by major conglomerates (Samsung, LG, Hyundai, SK, etc.) and SMEs will be held in Seoul on October 21, 2025, to support youth employment;

  ➀ This marks the first such collaboration between large and small companies in the economic sector since 2010, aiming to address youth unemployment and SME hiring challenges;

  ➂ The event includes offline recruitment booths, AI-driven consultations, career workshops, and online channels, with participation from 300 SMEs and 11 major corporate groups.

• S-Oil Introduces Korea's First AI and Big Data-Based Gas Station Sales Analysis System 'MAAS'

  ➀ S-OIL launched MAAS, Korea's first AI and big data-driven gas station sales analysis system, to enhance operational efficiency;

  ➁ MAAS provides real-time data analysis on pricing, customer behavior, and market competition, enabling tailored marketing and optimal pricing strategies;

  ➂ Positive feedback after 3 months of implementation highlights improved decision-making and plans for further algorithmic refinement to expand the platform.

• LG Electronics Expands OLED TV Art Marketing... Partners with UK's National Gallery

  ➀ LG Electronics partners with the UK's National Gallery to offer access to artworks like Georges Seurat's *Bathers at Asnières* via its LG Gallery+ TV app;

  ➁ The 3-year collaboration supports modern art projects, exhibitions, and programs like *Contemporary Fellowships* and *Unexpected Views* artist talks;

  ➂ 2025 LG OLED TVs feature *Perfect Black* and *Perfect Color* display certifications, enhancing their appeal in art-driven marketing campaigns.

• Korea Zinc Onsan Refinery Employees and Ulsan City Officials Conduct Joint Public-Private Volunteer Activity

  ➀ Employees from Korea Zinc's Onsan Refinery and Ulsan City officials conducted a joint volunteer activity at Suyeon Rehabilitation Center, including environmental cleanup, facility maintenance, and painting, as part of their '1 Company, 1 Facility Warmth Sharing' partnership;

  ➁ This marks the third such activity following a March 2025 agreement, with prior initiatives including a donation of KRW 10 million (approx. $7,500) in supplies and quarterly collaboration since June;

  ➂ Korea Zinc also leads beach cleanups, supports single-mother households, and organizes blood donation campaigns, earning top community contribution awards in 2023–2024.

September 18

• Hanwha Ocean Secures Order for 7 Large LNG Dual-Fuel Container Ships from Yang Ming Marine Transport

  ➀ Hanwha Ocean won a contract worth KRW 1.9336 trillion (~USD 1.48 billion at 1,300 KRW/USD) to build seven 15,880 TEU LNG dual-fuel container ships for Taiwan's Yang Ming Marine Transport, with delivery scheduled for the first half of 2029;

  ➁ The vessels feature ammonia-ready specifications and the world's first Type-B LNG fuel tanks with 1.0 bar pressure design, enhancing operational efficiency and compliance with environmental regulations by reducing gas flaring during port stays;

  ➂ This marks Hanwha Ocean's first collaboration with Yang Ming, following a previous deal with Evergreen Marine, reinforcing its leadership in eco-friendly shipbuilding technology.

• HS Hyosung Advanced Materials Showcases New Carbon Fiber-Based Products and Industry-Specific Solutions at 'CCE 2025'

  ➀ HS Hyosung Advanced Materials participates in Asia's largest composites expo, CCE 2025, highlighting carbon fiber innovations for aerospace, automotive, and sports industries;

  ➁ Showcases 3K woven fabric with enhanced tensile strength and elasticity, applicable to high-spec industrial products and aerospace;

  ➂ Introduces TANSOME® carbon fiber (developed in 2011) and advanced T-1000-grade fiber (2022), reinforcing its leadership in high-strength material technology.

• S-OIL Wins Hexagon’s ‘Best Innovation Award’ for Digital Transformation

  ➀ S-OIL was awarded the '2025 Best Innovation Award' by Hexagon for utilizing its smart digital reality platform and intelligent design solutions to enhance operational efficiency and data reliability.

  ➁ The company successfully implemented digital twin technology at its Ulsan plant, establishing a centralized data management system and improving sustainability.

  ➂ Key achievements include intelligent P&ID-based standardization, visualization via digital twins, and one-stop portal development to boost engineering efficiency.

• Doosan Enerbility Collaborates with Korea Southern Power to Localize Pumped Storage Power Generation Equipment

  ➀ Doosan Enerbility and Korea Southern Power signed an MOU to collaborate on domestic production of pumped storage power generation equipment, focusing on core design and manufacturing technologies;

  ➁ Doosan will accelerate securing core technologies through partnerships with foreign firms, while Korea Southern Power will provide verification environments and market support;

  ➂ Under government plans, 5.7GW of pumped storage capacity (nine facilities) will be built by 2037. Doosan, having secured a 330 billion KRW (approx. $253 million) contract for a pumped storage project earlier this year, aims to enhance localization rates and strengthen the domestic supply chain through partnerships, including with Austria's Andritz.

• LG Electronics Partners with U.S. Construction Company to Supply AI Home Appliances to Tens of Thousands of Local Homes

  ➀ LG Electronics signs an exclusive agreement with Century Communities to supply AI-powered appliances (refrigerators, washers, etc.) to all new U.S. homes built by the company through 2029;

  ➁ The partnership focuses on Energy Star-certified appliances for efficiency and integrates LG's ThinQ AI platform for tailored user experiences;

  ➂ Following a prior deal with Lennar, LG strengthens its B2B presence in the U.S., reporting a 70% YoY sales surge in H1 2025.

• HD Hyundai Heavy's Labor and Management Reach Second Tentative Agreement... Base Salary Increased by 135,000 KRW

  ➀ HD Hyundai Heavy Industries' management and union reached a second provisional wage agreement during the 24th negotiation round, proposing a base salary increase of 135,000 KRW (approx. $103.85), including a 35,000 KRW seniority raise.

  ➁ Additional benefits include bonuses totaling 5.2 million KRW (approx. $4,000) with gift cards, 100% special incentives, and a merger celebration bonus of 1.2 million KRW (approx. $923) for HD Hyundai Mipo's integration.

  ➂ The company emphasized this as its highest-ever offer, aligning with industry recovery trends. Union members will vote on the agreement on September 19.

• FITI Testing and Research Institute Opens Future Vehicle Electronic Component Test and Certification Center in Chungju, Chungcheongbuk-do

  ➀ FITI Testing and Research Institute inaugurated a Future Vehicle Electronic Component Test and Certification Center in Chungju, aiming to strengthen Korea's mobility ecosystem;

  ➁ Invested 19.3 billion KRW (~14.85 million USD) to build facilities including battery performance labs and semiconductor reliability testing rooms;

  ➂ Provides comprehensive testing services for automotive electronic components, ensuring compliance with ISO 26242 standards to enhance global competitiveness

• POSCO Group Chairman Jang In-hwa Emphasizes Strengthening Korea-Australia Solidarity

  ➀ POSCO Group Chairman Jang In-hwa attended the 46th Korea-Australia Joint Economic Cooperation Committee, highlighting collaboration in critical minerals, clean energy, AI, and disaster response;

  ➁ POSCO shared its plans to collaborate with Australian institutions on disaster preparedness and expand lithium hydroxide production using Australian resources, while investing USD 7 billion annually in Australian iron ore (70% of total procurement);

  ➂ The group is advancing carbon-reducing HBI projects and expanding natural gas operations through its acquisition of Senex Energy in 2022.

• SK Innovation Partners with U.S. KBR for Battery Recycling Technology Licensing

  ➀ SK Innovation signed an MOU with U.S. engineering firm KBR to license its Battery Material Recycling (BMR) technology, which enables direct lithium hydroxide recovery from used batteries;

  ➁ The BMR technology combines SK's unique lithium extraction process with KBR's high-purity crystallization tech (PureLi®), offering higher efficiency and compliance with EU battery recycling regulations;

  ➂ SK已验证其商业化实证设施（自2021年）可从约800辆电动车废电池中提取锂，并拥有100多项全球专利，旨在主导全球电池回收市场。

September 17

• ST and Korea National University of Transportation Establish 'Power Lab' for Power Technology Development and Support

  ➀ STMicroelectronics (ST) partners with Korea National University of Transportation to establish a 'Power Lab' aimed at advancing power electronics technology development and workforce training;

  ➁ The lab will feature advanced testing equipment ranging from 5kW to 30kW bidirectional/uni-directional loads, cooling systems, and high-performance oscilloscopes;

  ➂ ST will support professional evaluations of hardware/software solutions and provide real-time testing and optimization services for domestic clients, including power semiconductor applications in automotive and industrial sectors.

• Ship MRO, the First Step for MASGA Success, Smooth Sailing…Expecting Additional Orders in the Second Half

  ➀ South Korean shipbuilders, including HD Hyundai, Hanwha Ocean, and Samsung Heavy Industries, are advancing in U.S. Navy ship MRO projects under the MASGA initiative, focusing on timely execution to secure future orders;

  ➁ HD Hyundai is overhauling the USNS Alan Shepard, while Hanwha Ocean handles the USNS Charles Drew, with both aiming to demonstrate reliability;

  ➂ Samsung Heavy Industries and HJ Shipbuilding are strategizing to expand into non-combat ship MRO and leverage local partnerships, anticipating more opportunities in new shipbuilding markets if performance meets expectations.