SemiVoice

August 11

• Explosion-Free All-Solid-State Battery Achieves High Capacity and Large-Area Implementation

  ➀ KERI researchers developed an intermediate layer (Li₂ZnSb) that resolves interface instability between lithium metal anodes and solid electrolytes, enhancing safety and performance in all-solid-state batteries;

  ➁ The technology achieved 92% capacity retention over 250 cycles under low pressure (2MPa) and a high energy density of 320Wh/kg in pouch-type cells;

  ➂ The scalable roll-press process enables large-area electrode production, accelerating the commercialization of high-capacity solid-state batteries for automotive and industrial applications.

• LG Electronics Provides Free Vocational Training for Ethiopian Youth... Graduates 611 Students in Total

  ➀ LG Electronics held the 9th graduation ceremony at its 'LG-KOICA Hope Vocational Training School' in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, with 70 new graduates, bringing the total to 611 alumni since the school's establishment in 2014;

  ➁ The school, co-founded by LG, KOICA, and the Ethiopian government, offers free vocational education in IT and electrical/electronics fields, achieving a 100% employment/entrepreneurship rate among graduates, some of whom work at LG overseas subsidiaries;

  ➂ Recognized as an exemplary vocational institution by the Ethiopian government in 2020, the initiative reflects LG's commitment to youth empowerment and social responsibility as a global corporate citizen.

• NVIDIA and AMD to Pay 15% of China Sales Revenue to U.S. Government as Export License Condition

  ➀ NVIDIA and AMD agreed to pay 15% of their China semiconductor sales revenue to the U.S. government in exchange for export licenses for H20 and MI308 AI chips, approved by the Commerce Department two days after NVIDIA CEO Jensen Huang met with former President Trump;

  ➁ Despite industry concerns that H20 chips could boost China's military and AI capabilities, NVIDIA denied military use claims;

  ➂ The deal reflects U.S.-China trade tensions, with Trump seeking to negotiate with Chinese leadership while China pushes for relaxed controls on critical components like HBM.

August 10

• 'Mounting Management Difficulties' Gas Stations... SOS to Political Circles for 'Development Fund' Formation

  ➀ South Korea's petroleum distribution industry faces severe challenges due to the 2011 introduction of budget gas stations, which caused a 22.2% decline in traditional stations (from 11,897 in 2012 to 9,253 in 2024) and a 64.8% surge in budget stations (844 to 1,391).

  ➁ Industry associations proposed converting 1.02 trillion KRW (~$787 million) in existing subsidies for budget stations into a 'Petroleum Distribution Industry Development Fund' to support coexistence, assist struggling operators, and mitigate environmental risks from abandoned sites.

  ➂ The ruling Democratic Party endorsed the fund, pledging legislative reforms and budget commitments to address safety hazards, environmental pollution, and promote sustainable industry restructuring.

• Semiconductor Chiplets to Become Twice as Fast... 'UCIe 3.0' Standard Announced

  ➀ The UCIe Consortium announced the UCIe 3.0 standard, doubling maximum data transfer speeds to 64GT/s (64 billion transmissions per second);

  ➀ The new standard addresses demands for AI and high-performance computing (HPC) chips, leveraging chiplets to integrate diverse semiconductor components like CPUs, GPUs, and NPUs for enhanced performance;

  ➂ Major semiconductor companies, including Samsung, TSMC, and Intel, are part of the UCIe Consortium, aiming to advance scalable and interoperable System-in-Package (SiP) solutions.

• S-Oil Holds 'Mobile Classical Music Concert' at Magok TS&D Center

  ➀ S-OIL hosted a classical music concert at its Magok TS&D Center, featuring performances by the Heart Heart Orchestra, a group of musicians with developmental disabilities supported by the company since 2009;

  ➁ In 2021, S-OIL hired some orchestra members as employees, contributing to disability employment, and became a shareholder in Heart Heart Art & Culture, a certified workplace for people with disabilities established in April this year;

  ➂ The orchestra has held mobile concerts at welfare institutions and community venues, reflecting S-OIL's commitment to fostering stable employment and community engagement through artistic talent.

• Hanwha Science Challenge 2025 Concludes... 'A Stepping Stone for Global Scientists' Growth'

  ➀ Hanwha Group successfully held the 14th Hanwha Science Challenge 2025, themed 'Saving the Earth: Creative Ideas for a Sustainable Tomorrow,' with a record 758 teams (1,516 students) participating;

  ➁ The grand prize went to a smart pest control device for pine wilt nematodes, while other winners presented innovations in wind energy and marine pollution collection, with total prizes reaching 200 million KRW (≈$153,846);

  ➂ Winning teams will receive international science field trips, reinforcing Hanwha's commitment to fostering future global scientists through STEM education.

• LG Electronics Renovates Geumseong Jeonpasa into 'Empathy AI' Experience Space

  ➀ LG Electronics transformed the Geumseong Jeonpasa Refresh Center in Seoul into an interactive AI experience space, showcasing its 'Empathy AI' technology aimed at enhancing user-centric daily life;

  ➁ The redesigned space features four themes: AI for Life, Air, Entertainment, and Future, incorporating media art, HVAC innovations, and interactive installations like facial-recognition-based content recommendations and personalized mobility solutions;

  ➂ Collaborative artworks by university students and immersive displays, such as LG Smart Monitors with customized WebOS content, highlight LG's focus on customer engagement and AI-driven lifestyle enhancements.

• Samsung Electronics' Smart Monitor M9 Receives 'Best Monitor' Acclaim from US Tech Media

  ➀ Samsung's Smart Monitor M9, featuring a 4K QD-OLED panel, 165Hz refresh rate, and 0.03ms response time, has been praised by major US tech media for its exceptional color accuracy and AI-powered enhancements.

  ➀ Media outlets like Tom's Guide, TechAris, and HomeTheaterReview highlighted its Quantum Dot technology, AI upscaling, and versatility for both professional creative work and gaming.

  ➂ The monitor is recognized as a top-tier product in 2025, earning accolades such as 'Editors' Choice' and high ratings for redefining display standards.

• Samsung Wins US Government-Hosted 'AI Cyber Challenge'

  ➀ Samsung Electronics, in collaboration with global universities and researchers, won the AI Cyber Challenge (AIxCC) organized by DARPA, securing a $4 million prize (approximately 5.5 billion KRW);

  ➁ The competition aimed to develop AI technologies to automatically detect and patch software vulnerabilities in critical infrastructure sectors like healthcare, transportation, and energy, with a total prize pool of $22.5 million (approximately 313 billion KRN);

  ➂ Team Atlanta, composed of Samsung Research and academics from institutions like Georgia Tech and KAIST, outperformed 40 initial teams, showcasing advanced AI-driven security solutions without human intervention.

August 9

• Samsung Electronics to Participate in 'IFA 2025'... Presenting Future AI Home Vision

  ➀ Samsung Electronics will participate in Europe's largest consumer electronics exhibition IFA 2025 in Berlin from September 5-9, 2025;

  ➁ The company will host a global media conference on September 4, showcasing AI-powered products across TV, home appliances, mobile devices, and laptops integrated with the SmartThings ecosystem;

  ➂ Immersive showcases will demonstrate how AI innovation enhances daily life, led by Kim Cheol-gi, EVP of Samsung's Home Appliance Division.

• POSCO Cheongam Foundation Selects 4 POSCO Heroes Who Rescued Citizens During Heavy Rain

  ➀ The POSCO Cheongam Foundation honored four citizens as POSCO Heroes for rescuing an elderly person trapped in floodwaters during extreme rainfall in Gwangju on July 17;

  ➀ The group worked collaboratively, using wooden planks and tools to free the victim amid dangerous currents and a nearly colliding vehicle;

  ➂ The heroes emphasized teamwork and the urgency to save lives, downplaying personal risks.

• SK Innovation Launches Housing Improvement Project for Descendants of Independence Activists

  ➀ SK Innovation initiated a housing renovation project for descendants of Korean independence activists, starting with four households in Daejeon and Chungbuk Province, to commemorate the 80th anniversary of liberation;

  ➁ The company completed renovations for the residence of Huh Kyung, a posthumously recognized independence activist, in Seosan (Chungnam Province) and plans to expand the project to support veterans and first responders;

  ➂ Funded by the '1% Happiness Sharing Fund' (totaling 100 million KRW, ~$74,000 USD) contributed by employees, the project involves direct participation from staff and collaboration with Korean Habitat, a non-profit housing welfare organization.

• BodyFriend Appoints Kwak Do-Yeon and Kim Cheol-Hwan as New Co-CEOs

  ➀ BodyFriend appoints Kwak Do-Yeon and Kim Cheol-Hwan as new co-CEOs, replacing former co-CEOs who resigned for personal reasons;

  ➁ Kwak, with 12 years at the company, will lead sales and R&D, while Kim, overseeing management, brings expertise from finance and auditing roles;

  ➂ The company highlights their deep experience in healthcare home appliances and aims to drive growth under the dual leadership structure.

• Lenovo Chairman Yang Yuanqing to Deliver Keynote at CES 2026

  ➀ Lenovo Chairman and CEO Yang Yuanqing will deliver the opening keynote at CES 2026, marking his first appearance at the event;

  ➁ Lenovo will host its annual 'Tech World' conference during CES 2026, focusing on AI-driven innovations across devices, infrastructure, and services;

  ➂ As a technology partner for the FIFA World Cup 2026 and Formula 1, Lenovo plans to showcase AI-powered solutions for sports, including real-time analytics and enhanced fan engagement strategies.

• US Commerce Secretary: 'No Tariffs for Semiconductor Factory Investments'

  ➀ The U.S. Commerce Secretary clarified that the proposed 100% tariff on semiconductors would only apply to companies not investing in U.S. manufacturing facilities, with exemptions for those committed to building and overseeing factories in the country;

  ➁ The clarification follows former President Donald Trump's announcement to impose tariffs on all imported semiconductors, sparking industry concerns;

  ➂ Samsung Foundry and SK Hynix, which are investing $4.745 billion and $3.87 billion in Texas and Indiana semiconductor facilities, respectively, are expected to qualify for tariff exemptions.

• Posco Future M's First Shipment of Cathode Material Made with Domestic Precursor

  ➀ Posco Future M shipped its first batch of nickel-cobalt-manganese-aluminum (NCMA) high-nickel cathode material made with domestically sourced precursors to Ultium Cells (a joint venture between LG Energy Solution and GM) in the U.S., marking a milestone in supply chain independence;

  ➁ The company completed its precursor production line in Gwangyang in June, reducing reliance on Chinese imports and enabling localized production of battery materials;

  ➂ The move aligns with tightening U.S. regulations on Chinese battery materials and strengthens Posco’s competitive edge through a vertically integrated supply chain from raw materials to finished cathode materials.

• Electrix Signs Official Distributorship Agreement with Global Premium Solar Module Manufacturer AIKO Solar

  ➀ Electrix partners with AIKO Solar as its official distributor to expand in Korea's renewable energy market, leveraging AIKO's high-efficiency N-Type ABC solar modules;

  ➁ AIKO's ABC modules achieve over 24.6% efficiency with KS-certified 635W–670W products, offering higher energy yield and durability compared to conventional technologies;

  ➂ Electrix provides end-to-end solutions, including design, installation, and maintenance, to support customers' sustainable energy strategies through its Green Energy Solutions division.

• Hyosung TNC to Showcase Eco-Friendly Functional New Products at 'PIS 2025'

  ➀ Hyosung TNC will co-host the largest-ever joint booth with 16 partner companies at PIS 2025, a major textile exhibition in Seoul, to highlight eco-friendly functional products;

  ➁ The booth will feature trend forums and a certified textile zone, showcasing innovations like Creora Askin, recycled spandex, and recycled nylon for 2027 fashion trends;

  ➂ The company aims to strengthen global recognition of K-textile and drive sustainable growth in collaboration with industry partners.

• HSAD Unveils New S-Oil Advertising Campaign Highlighting the Power of Positivity

  ➀ HSAD launched S-Oil's new ad campaign titled 'Goodoil Can Do It: Let's Go Together to a Better Tomorrow,' emphasizing a positive vision using 3D animation set in the virtual 'Shahin City';

  ➁ The campaign symbolically represents S-Oil's 2026 petrochemical complex project ('Shahin Project') and employs a catchy CM song with wordplay and encouraging lyrics to foster emotional engagement;

  ➂ The initiative aims to strengthen S-Oil's brand identity and consumer connection through creative storytelling and future-oriented energy ecosystem themes.

August 8

• SaeK to Introduce Electron Beam Technology... Tech Forum to be Held on the 10th of Next Month

  ➀ SaeK announced plans to host a tech forum on September 10 at the Korea Exchange (Yeouido) to introduce its electron beam (including X-ray) technology and business status, targeting institutional investors and media;

  ➁ The forum will feature presentations on the overview of electron beam/X-ray technology, the company’s business progress, and future investment plans, with CEO Kim Jong-hyun leading the event;

  ➂ SaeK emphasized the event aims to comprehensively explain the fundamentals, industrial applications, and growth strategies of electron beam technology, which remains unfamiliar in South Korea.

• Curved Micro LED Display for Smartwatches

  ➀ Samsung Display showcased a curved Micro LED display for smartwatches at the 'K-Display 2025 Korea Display Industry Exhibition';

  ➁ The event, hosted by the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy, took place at COEX in Seoul;

  ➂ The innovative display highlights advancements in compact, flexible display technology for wearable devices.

• Samsung SDI-powered Lucid electric vehicle achieves Guinness World Record with 1,205 km single-charge range

  ➀ Lucid Air Grand Touring equipped with Samsung SDI's 21700 cylindrical batteries set a new Guinness World Record by driving 1,205 km (749 miles) on a single charge, surpassing the previous 1,045 km record;

  ➁ The vehicle utilizes 6,600 high-nickel NCA cathode and silicon anode batteries that enable high capacity, long lifespan, and fast charging capabilities;

  ➂ Samsung SDI and Lucid have maintained a strategic partnership since 2016, with plans to expand global market share through advanced battery technology development.

• KAIST's 'Sleep Algorithm' Set to Lead the Global Sleep Health Market

  ➀ KAIST developed a personalized sleep guidance algorithm in collaboration with Samsung Electronics, aiming to address sleep-related issues affecting over 80% of modern individuals globally;

  ➁ The algorithm offers tailored recommendations to improve irregular sleep patterns and has garnered significant academic attention;

  ➂ The technology will be rolled out to global users through Samsung's platforms.

• From Bumping to Packaging... LB Semicon and ASE Collaborate in Semiconductor Back-End Processes

  ➀ LB Semicon signed an MOU with ASE Korea to establish a turn-key system for semiconductor packaging and testing, dividing responsibilities: LB handles wafer bumping and electrical testing, while ASE manages die-cutting and packaging;

  ➁ The collaboration aims to improve LB Semicon's bumping production facility utilization (65.3% in Q1 2025) and enhance ASE's investment efficiency, with South Korea emerging as ASE's FC-CSP production hub;

  ➂ Both companies plan to expand cooperation in advanced packaging R&D, technical exchanges, and customer-specific solutions to strengthen their global market competitiveness.

• SeAh Group becomes first in steel industry to win Red Dot Design Award grand prize twice

  ➀ SeAh Group won the grand prize in the Brand & Communication Design category at the Red Dot Design Awards for the second time, marking the first instance of a South Korean steel company achieving this feat twice;

  ➁ The award-winning brand film *I'm Steel Here* metaphorically conveyed steel's enduring role in cutting-edge industries like aerospace and renewable energy through a narrative featuring the character *Captain SeAh*;

  ➂ The group plans to continue enhancing its brand value through creative content that reflects its identity and philosophy.

• Panstar to Operate Japan West Coast Cruise on Costa Serena from September 17-22

  ➀ Panstar Group launches a 5-night, 6-day cruise departing from Busan on September 17, visiting Kanazawa, Maizuru, and Sakaiminato in Japan, with extended 10-13-hour port stays for in-depth exploration of cultural and natural attractions;

  ➁ The itinerary includes special experiences like traversing the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route and visiting Kyoto, alongside unique onboard entertainment such as SBS's 'Seonsang The Trot Show' featuring K-pop stars Ahn Seong-hun and Jin Hae-seong;

  ➂ Additional activities include theatrical performances, dance parties, health workshops, and participatory events like 'Cruise Song King,' offering a blend of leisure and cultural immersion.

• HD Hyundai Expands Naval Collaboration with U.S. Anduril Industries... Accelerating Entry into Local Markets

  ➀ HD Hyundai signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with U.S. defense AI company Anduril Industries to integrate autonomous naval technologies, combining HD's shipbuilding expertise with Anduril's mission systems;

  ➁ In South Korea, Anduril’s AI-driven mission systems will be deployed on HD’s unmanned surface vessels (USVs), while HD will lead design and construction for U.S.-developed crewed/uncrewed vessels;

  ➂ Joint USV prototype development aims for a 2027 rollout in Korea, building on HD’s recent U.S. partnerships with Huntington Ingalls and Fairbanks Morse Defense.

• [Photo] Samsung's Mobility Display

  ➀ The 'K-Display 2025 Korea Display Industry Exhibition', hosted by the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy, commenced on August 7 at COEX in Seoul for a two-day run.

  ➁ Samsung Display showcased its automotive displays for future mobility solutions at the event, attracting significant visitor attention.

  ➂ The exhibition highlighted cutting-edge technologies in the display industry, emphasizing applications in next-generation vehicles.

• [Photo] Displays Mounted in Future Mobility

  ➀ The 'K-Display 2025 Korea Display Industry Exhibition,' hosted by the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy, opened on August 7 at COEX in Seoul for a two-day run;

  ➁ LG Display showcased automotive display technologies for future mobility solutions, attracting visitor attention;

  ➂ The event highlighted advancements in display innovation for next-generation vehicles and transportation systems, reinforcing South Korea's leadership in the display industry.