SemiVoice

August 8

• [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.

August 7

• LG Electronics Dominates 2025 TWICE VIP Awards with Multiple Wins in TV, AV, and IT Categories

  ➀ LG Electronics swept five awards across four categories (OLED TV, Bluetooth speaker, projector, laptop, and gaming monitor) at the 2025 TWICE VIP Awards, earning the 'Super VIP Award' for most wins;

  ➁ Its OLED TVs were recognized as No.1 in evaluations by 14 global consumer media outlets, including U.S. Consumer Reports, solidifying their leadership in the premium TV market;

  ➂ Key products highlighted include the AI-powered XBoom Bounce speaker (under $199) and CineBeam Short-Throw projector with 4K ultra-short focus technology.

• Exina Unveils World's First CXL 3.2-Based Intelligent Memory 'MX1'

  ➀ Exina introduced the MX1, the world's first intelligent memory supporting both PCIe 6.0 and CXL 3.2, winning the 'Most Innovative Memory Technology' award at FMS 2025;

  ➁ MX1 features a custom ASIC architecture with RISC-V cores for in-memory processing, reduces data movement, and optimizes AI inference and big data analysis in data centers;

  ➂ Includes an SDK for seamless integration, plans sample distribution in October 2025 and mass production in 2026.

• Fujifilm Korea Launches Full-Scale Operation of 'Soso Agit' Analog Photography Community

  ➀ Fujifilm Korea launches the 'Soso Agit' online community, allowing photography enthusiasts to become 'Soso Editors' and participate in creative activities;

  ➁ The community offers educational programs like the 'Chalkak Counseling Center' to teach film camera techniques and photo development;

  ➂ A seasonal 7-day mentoring project 'Weekly Diary' provides expert feedback and photography kits to enhance creative perspectives.

• AMD Reports Q2 Revenue of KRW 10.6 Trillion, Driven by Server and PC Demand

  ➀ AMD's Q2 revenue reached $7.685 billion (KRW 10.66 trillion), up 32% YoY, with net profit surging 229% to $872 million (KRW 1.21 trillion), driven by strong server and PC processor demand;

  ➁ Data Center division (including CPUs and GPUs) grew 14% to $3.2 billion, while Client & Gaming revenue jumped 69% to $3.6 billion, boosted by Ryzen processors;

  ➂ Despite an $800 million loss from U.S. restrictions on MI308 chip exports to China, AMD expects recovery and forecasts Q3 revenue between $8.4-9 billion, surpassing market expectations.

• Cuchen Obtains K-Mark Certification for 'Zero Bin' Food Waste Processor, Eligible for Local Government Subsidies

  ➀ Cuchen’s 'Zero Bin' food waste processor obtained the K-Mark certification from the Korea Testing Laboratory (KTL), qualifying it for local government subsidies covering up to 70% of purchase costs;

  ➁ The appliance uses advanced drying, shredding, and odor-control technology, with automated features for user convenience and safety, including a one-touch operation and auto-cleaning;

  ➂ The certification reinforces Cuchen’s technological credibility and is expected to boost consumer interest amid growing demand for eco-friendly household solutions.

• Towards Semiconductor Unicorn <2> Wavetech Targets AI with Ultra-Fast Wireless Data Technology

  ➀ Wavetech unveiled ultra-high-speed wireless data transmission technology at CES 2025, positioning itself as a key infrastructure provider for AI applications;

  ➁ Its 60GHz wireless semiconductor enables sub-millisecond latency for 8K+ video and data, targeting autonomous vehicles, AR/VR, medical devices, and displacing wired interfaces like HDMI;

  ➂ The company is preparing mass production of wireless antenna-in-package (AiP) chips and collaborating with global partners for commercialization by 2026.

• Toray Advanced Materials Donates 10 Million KRW Development Fund to Sister Military Unit

  ➀ Toray Advanced Materials donated an additional 10 million KRW (approximately $7,700) development fund to its sister unit, the 5th Artillery Brigade, and organized a military camp experience program for employees and their children;

  ➁ The event involved 40 participants experiencing military equipment, barracks life, and DMZ peace tourism activities;

  ➂ The funds will be used to enhance soldiers' welfare and morale.

• Fujifilm Business Innovation Korea to Participate in K-Print 2025, the Largest Printing Expo in Korea

  ➀ Fujifilm Business Innovation Korea announces participation in K-Print 2025, South Korea's largest printing expo, showcasing advanced digital printing technologies and DX solutions;

  ➁ Key exhibits include the Revoria Press PC1120 and SC285S printers, workflow automation software "Revoria XMF PressReady," and AI/cloud-based solutions to enhance productivity;

  ➂ Special seminars and daily demonstrations will highlight digital printing innovations, RPA-driven automation, and cybersecurity strategies during the event from August 20–23.

• Samsung Electro-Mechanics Included in FTSE4Good ESG Index for 15 Consecutive Years

  ➀ Samsung Electro-Mechanics has been included in the FTSE4Good ESG index for the 15th consecutive year since 2011, marking the longest streak in the domestic electronic components industry;

  ➁ The FTSE4Good evaluates over 300 criteria across environmental, social, and governance (ESG) aspects, with the company excelling in water resource management, supply chain collaboration, and corporate governance;

  ➂ Initiatives include expanding water reuse facilities, joint technology development with suppliers, mutual growth fund support, and operating a supplier academy, as highlighted by the company’s commitment to sustainable management and building trust.

• Lotte Energy Materials Reports KRW 31.1 Billion Operating Loss in Q2, Shifts to Deficit

  ➀ Lotte Energy Materials recorded Q2 2025 revenue of KRW 204.9 billion (~$157.6 million USD), a 22% YoY decline, with an operating loss of KRW 31.1 billion (~$23.9 million USD), shifting from profit to loss year-on-year;

  ➁ The loss narrowed by KRW 14.9 billion (~$11.5 million USD) compared to Q1, driven by increased copper foil sales, though reduced battery demand and rising copper prices persisted;

  ➂ The company plans to diversify into energy storage systems (ESS) and mobile applications, while expanding high-value product sales to improve performance in H2 2025.

August 6

• Samsung Electronics Launches New 'Bespoke Countertop Dishwasher'

  ➀ Samsung Electronics launched the 2025 'Bespoke Countertop Dishwasher,' featuring enhanced energy efficiency (Grade 2) and the lowest power consumption among domestic 6-person dishwashers.

  ➁ The compact dishwasher reduces water usage by 10% compared to previous models, offers a 95-minute wash cycle, and includes advanced features like dual rotating nozzles, 99.999% sterilization via high-temperature water, and a three-stage heat-drying system.

  ➂ Priced between ₩690,000 and ₩790,000 (approximately $530–$610 USD), it targets households of 1–4 people and supports specialized functions like 'Bottle Sterilization Mode' and automatic door opening for post-wash ventilation.

• Japan's Hitachi Considers Selling Home Appliance Business

  ➀ Hitachi is exploring the sale of its home appliance division, Hitachi Global Life Solutions (GLS), which reported a 3% revenue decline to 3.5 trillion KRW ($2.66 billion USD) in 2024；

  ➁ Potential buyers, including Samsung Electronics, may engage in a deal potentially worth trillions of won, as Hitachi shifts focus to digital-driven business models；

  ➂ The company faces internal debates over retaining the brand for recognition despite profitability challenges in the home appliance sector, following prior divestments of overseas units.

• Lenovo Korea Launches 'IdeaPad Slim 3x' with Qualcomm Snapdragon X

  ➀ Lenovo Korea unveiled the AI-powered laptop _IdeaPad Slim 3x_, featuring Qualcomm Snapdragon X with a 45 TOPS NPU for AI tasks like multitasking and real-time content optimization;

  ➀ Priced at approximately 800,000 KRW (~$580), it targets students and professionals, offering a 15.3-inch IPS/OLED display (up to 2.5K resolution), 60Wh battery (22-hour续航), fast charging, and a privacy shutter;

  ➂ Additional features include TUV Rheinland Low Blue Light certification, Windows 11 Home OS, and a lightweight design (1.5kg).

• Daehan Electric Wire Secures 110 Billion Won Turnkey Contract for Ultra-High Voltage Underground Power Grid in Singapore

  ➀ Daehan Electric Wire secured a 1.1 trillion KRW (approximately $87 million USD) contract to design, produce, and install a 400 kV ultra-high voltage underground power grid in Singapore;

  ➁ The project aims to transmit renewable energy from Indonesia to meet Singapore's rising power demand driven by data centers and AI infrastructure expansion;

  ➂ This follows an 800 billion KRW project with Singapore's power authority in 2024, emphasizing the company's expertise in HVDC systems and submarine cables.

• Korea Zinc Introduces Quadruped Robot 'Spot' at Onsan Smelter to Accelerate Smart Smelter Transition

  ➀ Korea Zinc has deployed Boston Dynamics' quadruped robot 'Spot' at its Onsan Smelter to enhance safety and operational efficiency, marking the first such adoption in global smelting facilities;

  ➁ Equipped with ultrasonic sensors, infrared cameras, and gas detectors, Spot monitors 466 inspection points, detects hazards like gas leaks, and operates during off-hours to ensure continuous oversight;

  ➂ Future plans include integrating 360° cameras, thermal imaging, and AI-driven systems for predictive maintenance, alongside drones and autonomous vehicles to build a comprehensive smart smelter ecosystem.

• EcoPro BM's Q2 Operating Profit Soars 1159% YoY to KRW 49 Billion

  ① EcoPro BM reported a Q2 operating profit of KRW 49 billion (approximately $37.7 million), a 1159.1% increase year-over-year and a 2058.7% surge quarter-over-quarter.

  ② Sales reached KRW 779.7 billion (~$600 million), down 3.7% YoY but up 23.8% compared to the previous quarter.

  ③ The company, headquartered in Cheongju, Chungcheongbuk-do, specializes in cathode materials for electric vehicle batteries.

• GS Caltex Launches 'Kixx GX7' Engine Oil Meeting the Latest API Specifications

  ➀ GS Caltex released its premium synthetic gasoline engine oil 'Kixx GX7', certified under API's latest SQ standard, offering enhanced engine protection, fuel efficiency, and extended oil change intervals.

  ➁ The product features improved timing chain protection, prevents low-speed pre-ignition (LSPI), and maintains viscosity under extreme temperatures.

  ➂ The launch coincides with the 20th anniversary of the 'Kixx' brand, which underwent a visual redesign and aims to expand globally as a sustainable lubricant solution across industries including automotive and data centers.

• Encum Expected to Receive 17 Billion KRW from U.S. AMPC This Year

  ➀ Encum anticipates receiving approximately 17 billion KRW (about $13 million) in 2025 under the U.S. Advanced Manufacturing Production Credit (AMPC), a program under the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) for battery production.

  ➁ Cumulative AMPC benefits since 2023 are projected to reach 43 billion KRW ($33 million), with plans to expand production in Indiana and Tennessee to strengthen North American localization.

  ➂ As the sole Korean battery materials company eligible for AMPC, Encum's lithium-ion battery electrolyte qualifies as an electrode-active material, securing its position in the program.

• Samsung Display Unveils Foldable Brand 'Mont Flex'

  ➀ Samsung Display introduced its new foldable OLED brand 'Mont Flex,' emphasizing its commitment to innovation, with the name symbolizing 'mechanically durable, optically flat, narrow bezel, and thin/light' features;

  ➁ The brand celebrates the company's 7 years of foldable OLED production, highlighting a new product with 500,000-fold durability and sleeker design;

  ➂ The brand will debut at the K-Display 2025 exhibition in Seoul to strengthen leadership in the foldable display market.

August 5

• Korean Information Display Society Successfully Concludes 'Display School'

  ➀ The Korean Information Display Society (KIDS) organized the 15th Display School, offering 60 lectures across 5 subjects with 38 experts including professors and industry professionals from Samsung Display and LG Display;

  ➁ The program attracted 493 participants (456 undergraduates, 22 graduate students, and 15 industry professionals);

  ➂ KIDS plans to hold a similar event in mid-July to early August 2026 to foster display industry talent.

• Epson and Bose Jointly Develop Next-Generation Sound Projector

  ➀ Epson partners with audio brand BOSE to jointly develop next-generation sound projectors with integrated visual and sound technology;

  ➁ The product will debut in the U.S. and China in September 2025, followed by expansion to South Korea and global markets;

  ➂ The collaboration aims to establish new standards for immersive entertainment experiences through enhanced audio-visual convergence.

• SK Innovation Holds 'KnockRock Tour' Career Camp for Family Care Youth

  ➀ SK Innovation organized a 2-day career camp 'KnockRock Tour' in Seoul for 32 family care youth, supporting their career development and psychological well-being;

  ➁ The program, part of the 'KnockRock Care' initiative, expanded its reach to include Incheon, Daejeon, and Ulsan this year, with a budget of 3 billion KRW (~230,769 USD) funded by employee donations;

  ➂ Activities included career talks, psychological assessments, and cultural experiences at Lotte World to alleviate the children's caregiving burdens.

• SeAh Besteel and SeAh Changwon Special Steel File Anti-Dumping Complaint Against Chinese Special Steel Bars

  ➀ SeAh Besteel and SeAh Changwon Special Steel submitted an anti-dumping complaint to the Korea Trade Commission against Chinese special steel bars, citing threats to the domestic steel industry and supply chain competitiveness due to a surge in low-priced imports;

  ➁ Data shows imports of Chinese special steel bars surged 50% over two years while prices dropped 24%, causing SeAh Changwon's operating profit to plummet 91% from 125.7 billion KRW ($95.8 million) in 2022 to 11.4 billion KRW ($8.7 million) in 2023;

  ➂ The companies emphasized the need for protective measures to safeguard strategic industries (defense, aerospace, nuclear power) and prevent structural damage to South Korea's $100+ billion machinery and equipment ecosystem.

• KOHYOUNG Technology Supports Career Exploration for Yongin Youth

  ➀ KOHYOUNG Technology organized a corporate tour program for Yongin middle school students, offering AI lectures and hands-on experiences with 3D semiconductor inspection equipment and medical robots;

  ➁ Students engaged with real-world industrial applications, sparking interest in AI and robotics as potential career paths;

  ➂ The company emphasized its commitment to inspiring youth through technology and building sustainable partnerships with Yongin City.

• LG Electronics Launches Premium Ultra-Compact Projector 'LG Cinebeam Shots'

  ➀ LG Electronics unveiled the 'LG Cinebeam Shots' (PU615U), a portable ultra-short-throw projector that projects a 100-inch 4K screen from just 40cm, featuring a compact design (11x16x16cm, 1.9kg);

  ➁ The projector uses RGB laser technology for 4K resolution, supports 154% DCI-P3 color gamut, 450,000:1 contrast ratio, Dolby Atmos audio, and LG's webOS for built-in FAST streaming services and gaming;

  ➂ Priced at ₩1.79 million KRW (approx. $1,300), it includes wall-color calibration and screen adjustment features to optimize image quality.

• GS Caltex Wins Two Main Prizes at Red Dot Design Award, First for an Oil Refiner

  ➀ GS Caltex won two main awards in the 'Brand & Communication Design' category at the 2025 Red Dot Design Award for its Energy Plus app, marking the first such achievement by an oil refiner;

  ➁ The Energy Plus app offers features like instant fueling service, allowing users to pre-register fuel preferences and payment methods for seamless transactions;

  ➂ GS Caltex aims to enhance user satisfaction through continuous improvements in app design and technology integration.

• Chungnam Ranks First in Trade Balance in First Half Despite Global Economic Uncertainty... Confirms Status as Production and Export Hub

  ➀ Chungnam Province recorded South Korea's highest trade surplus of $23.9 billion in H1 2025, with exports at $42.7 billion and imports at $18.8 billion, despite a 2.6% dip in exports and 9.4% import decline amid global economic challenges;

  ➁ Recovery in memory semiconductor demand and strong performance of K-Food and K-Beauty boosted exports, while falling oil prices impacted petrochemical exports;

  ➂ The EU market showed growth in semiconductors and automotive sectors, with plans to diversify export markets and strengthen competitiveness under ongoing global uncertainties.

• S-Oil Conducts Natural Monument Protection Activity by Releasing Endangered Yellow Catfish Fry

  ➀ S-Oil organized a volunteer activity releasing 5,000 yellow catfish fry in Gapyeong’s Cheongpyeong Lake, collaborating with the Korea Freshwater Fish Conservation Association and Environmental Foundation to protect the endangered species;

  ➁ Since 2008, the company has supported natural monument conservation for 18 years, successfully restoring the 'eoreumchi' fish population and now shifting focus to yellow catfish, which has seen a 50% population decline over the past decade;

  ➂ Designated as a natural monument, yellow catfish requires urgent protection, and S-Oil pledged to continue its corporate social responsibility in preserving endangered species.