SemiVoice

March 28

• Previewing 'Glass Substrate' Tech Day: Samsung Electro-Mechanics and JWMT

  ➀ Samsung Electro-Mechanics is leading the semiconductor glass substrate market, having set up a domestic production line in Sejong and accelerating collaboration with material, part, and equipment industries.

  ➁ The company is developing both 'Glass Core Substrate' and 'Glass Interposer' to overcome the limitations of plastic substrates and replace expensive silicon interposers.

  ➂ JWMT, another key player, is gaining attention for its LMCE technology and TGV production, with plans to expand production capacity to 30,000 units per month in Ansan.

March 27

• Chairman Choi Tae-won of Korea Chamber of Commerce: "AI Innovation is Essential for the Survival of Korea's Manufacturing Model"

  ➀ Chairman Choi Tae-won of the Korea Chamber of Commerce emphasized the need for manufacturing innovation, stating that Korea's existing manufacturing model is losing its competitive edge and must be revitalized through AI-driven innovation. He stressed that Korea should focus on creating a structure that earns foreign currency by selling high-quality goods enabled by AI, rather than simply relying on export volumes.

  ➁ Choi also highlighted the importance of developing large language models (LLMs) to avoid Korea becoming dependent on global AI firms. He noted that while Korea doesn't need to create foundational models, developing its own LLM and internalizing AI infrastructure is critical to avoid becoming an AI-dependent nation.

  ➂ The chairman proposed collaboration with Japan to optimize costs supporting society and mentioned the potential economic effects of the '2025 APEC Economic Leaders' Event' to reach over 7 trillion KRW. Choi also voiced concerns about the amendment to the commercial law and the semiconductor special law's failure to pass, which includes allowing a 52-hour workweek for semiconductor R&D.

• Murata Adds DC Input Series 'Ionizer Lineup' with Increased Ion Generation

  ➀ Murata has developed the 'MHM332 type' ionizer, part of the MHM3 series (DC input series), with mass production starting from March 2025 and samples available soon.

  ➁ With growing concerns over air purification due to health and hygiene management, there is a rising demand for improving air purifier performance and adding air purification functions to other home appliances.

  ➂ The 'MHM332 type' ionizer increases ion generation by approximately 1.6 times compared to the 'MHM305 type' while maintaining the same level of ozone generation, and it can easily replace existing products due to identical board size, mounting location, and interface. Additionally, the standardization of high-voltage components has reduced lead time from order to factory shipment.

• Dell Technologies unveils new AI PC and monitors for 2025

  ➀ Dell Technologies has unveiled new AI PC and business monitors designed to innovate efficiency and productivity.

  ➁ The Dell Pro 32 Plus 4K USB-C Hub Monitor was introduced during a media event in Seoul.

  ➂ The event took place at the Intercontinental Seoul Parnas Hotel in Gangnam-gu, Seoul.

• SKC President Park Won-cheol Announces Trial Operation of U.S. Glass Substrate Factory, Secures Major Customers

  ➀ SKC President Park Won-cheol announced that the U.S. glass substrate factory in Georgia has entered the trial production phase, targeting mass production.

  ➁ The company has secured numerous global top-tier customers in high-performance computing (HPC), artificial intelligence (AI) servers, and high-frequency wireless communications.

  ➂ SKC is restructuring its portfolio with a focus on secondary batteries, semiconductors, and eco-friendly businesses, enhancing its fundamentals by divesting low-growth non-core businesses.

• Dell Technologies unveils 4K Thunderbolt Hub Monitor and AI PC for 2025

  ➀ Dell Technologies has unveiled its 2025 client新品, including an AI PC and the UltraSharp 27 4K Thunderbolt Hub Monitor.

  ➁ The new products aim to innovate efficiency and productivity in the workplace.

  ➂ The event was held at the InterContinental Seoul Parnas Hotel in Gangnam-gu, Seoul.

• Bright Power Semi Establishes Korean Office to Target Power Semiconductor Market

  ➀ Bright Power Semi (BPS) has established a Korean office and appointed Kang Won-seok, a former Samsung Electronics engineer, as the head of the office to target the domestic power semiconductor market.

  ➁ The company, headquartered in Shanghai, has seen a 15.4% year-on-year increase in revenue, reaching 1.536 billion RMB (approximately 303.5 billion KRW) last year.

  ➂ BPS plans to target smartphone fast chargers as its first product in the Korean market, with the goal of expanding into IT devices, home appliances, high-performance computing (HPC), and automotive markets.

• Dell Technologies Unveils AI PC and Curved Thunderbolt Hub Monitor

  ➀ Dell Technologies has unveiled new client products for 2025, including an AI PC and a business monitor, aimed at enhancing efficiency and productivity.

  ➁ The Dell UltraSharp 34 Curved Thunderbolt Hub Monitor was introduced during the Dell 2025 Commercial Client New Product Media Briefing held at the Intercontinental Seoul Par纳斯 Hotel in Gangnam-gu, Seoul on the 26th.

  ➂ The event showcased innovative products designed to cater to modern business needs.

• SemiFive breaks 100 billion won in sales after 5 years since its founding

  ➀ SemiFive has突破1000亿韩元销售额，成立仅5年。

  ➁ Last year's revenue was 111.8 billion won, a 56.8% increase year-on-year.

  ➂ The company serves as a Samsung Foundry Design Solution Partner (DSP), supporting semiconductor design and production for other firms, and focuses on System-on-Chip (SoC) platforms to reduce development costs and timelines for customers.

March 26

• HD Hyundai Infracore Secures Large Excavator Order of 100 Units in Ethiopia

  ➀ HD Hyundai Infracore has successfully secured a large order for 100 units of 36-ton excavators in Ethiopia, expanding its presence in the African market.

  ➁ The excavators, popular in Ethiopia, will be supplied to local mining companies by June this year.

  ➂ Despite stiff competition from Japanese and Chinese products, HD Hyundai Infracore maintained a market share of 57% in Ethiopia last year, and it plans to strengthen sales in emerging markets, particularly in Africa, where infrastructure projects are driving demand for construction machinery.

• HP Releases Next-Gen Gaming PC with Omnen AI

  ➀ HP has released its next-gen gaming PC 'Omnen Max 16' along with gaming peripherals, all based on the AI-powered gaming solution 'Omnen AI';

  ➁ The launch event took place at HP Korea in Yeouido, Seoul on March 25, where employees introduced the new products;

  ➂ The event showcased the integration of AI in gaming solutions, marking a significant step in AI-driven gaming experiences.

• HP Korea Unveils Next-Gen Gaming PC 'Omen Max 16' and AI-Based Gaming Solutions

  ➀ HP Korea has introduced new gaming products including the next-gen gaming PC 'Omen Max 16' and AI-based gaming solutions 'Omen AI' in the domestic market.

  ➁ A media roundtable event was held on the 25th at the HP Korea office in Yeouido, Seoul, with a welcome speech by Kim Dae-hwan, representative of HP Korea.

  ➂ The new products also include gaming peripherals to complement the gaming experience.

• LX Pantos New Employees Carry Out 'Bicycles of Love' Activity

  ➀ LX Pantos new employees assembled and donated 10 bicycles for underprivileged children.

  ➁ The activity was part of an entry-level training program focusing on social contribution and teamwork.

  ➂ The bicycles will be delivered to underprivileged children in Seoul through the Green Umbrella Children's Foundation.

• HP Korea Unveils Next-Gen Gaming PC 'Omen Max 16' and AI-Based Gaming Solutions

  ➀ HP Korea has launched new gaming products including the next-gen gaming PC 'Omen Max 16' and AI-based gaming solutions.

  ➁ The launch event, held at the HP Korea office in Yeouido, Seoul on the 25th, included a media roundtable.

  ➂ HP Korea Representative Kim Dae-hwan delivered a welcome speech at the event.

March 25

• Vincen Receives Asia's First Approval for Marine Fuel Cell Stack from RINA

  ➀ Vincen, a specialist in eco-friendly marine technology, has obtained Asia's first type approval from RINA for its 60kW marine fuel cell stack.

  ➁ The fuel cell stack successfully passed performance and environmental tests based on IEC international standards, including vibration and insulation tests.

  ➂ This approval marks an important milestone for the commercialization of hydrogen fuel cell technology in eco-friendly marine applications, with plans to accelerate the development of next-gen hydrogen fuel cell solutions.

• Gaonchips Signs Cutting-Edge Semiconductor IP Contract with Cadence

  ➀ Gaonchips has signed a contract with Cadence to expand the use of cutting-edge semiconductor design assets (IP). Although the specific scale of the contract was not disclosed, the strategic collaboration will allow Gaonchips to acquire the latest semiconductor IP in memory and chiplet interfaces.

  ➁ Through this partnership, Gaonchips plans to strengthen its capabilities in designing next-generation AI and high-performance computing (HPC) semiconductors, as well as automotive chips.

  ➂ Gaonchips aims to accelerate its entry into global markets, including Europe, following its previous expansions into Japan and North America.

• Samsung Electronics Releases World's First Glasses-Free 3D Monitor

  ➀ Samsung Electronics has released the world's first glasses-free 3D gaming monitor, 'Odyssey 3D', in South Korea. The monitor uses a lenticular lens on the panel front and features 'AI 3D Image Conversion' to transform 2D images into 3D content. It employs eye-tracking and screen mapping technologies to deliver high-quality 3D viewing experiences tailored to the user's eye position.

  ➁ The 'Odyssey 3D' monitor also supports 4K resolution, AMD FreeSync Premium, and Pro technologies, with a maximum refresh rate of 165Hz and a 1ms response time for smooth gaming.

  ➂ Samsung is also expanding its Odyssey series lineup with new models like the 'Odyssey OLED G8', which features 4K resolution, a 240Hz refresh rate, and OLED Glare Free technology. Additionally, the 'ViewFinity S8·S7' high-resolution monitors are introduced with a 37-inch display and an ergonomic stand.

• LG Chem Vice Chairman Shin Hak-cheol Vows to Enhance Portfolio with Three New Growth Engines

  ➀ LG Chem Vice Chairman Shin Hak-cheol announced plans to enhance the company's portfolio through qualitative growth in three new growth engines, prioritizing and focusing on key areas to improve competitiveness.

  ➁ The company aims to build core competencies in battery materials to provide differentiated value to customers and strengthen competitive advantages. Efforts will be made to accelerate the transition to results-oriented R&D to enhance future competitiveness, while reorganizing existing R&D tasks and exploring new ones from the perspective of market and customers.

  ➂ Efficient R&D will be pursued through internal resource optimization and external collaborations, with accelerated AI and digital transformation (DX) activities. The company also aims to improve cash flow, enhance fundamental competitiveness, and achieve sustainable growth by adjusting investment priorities and optimizing resource allocation.

• Samsung Electronics Releases First Glasses-Free 3D Monitor in Korea

  ➀ Samsung Electronics unveils its 2025 premium gaming and high-resolution monitors, targeting the premium monitor market.

  ➁ The company introduces 'Odyssey 3D', the first glasses-free 3D gaming monitor in Korea.

  ➂ The new monitor is part of Samsung's strategy to lead the high-end monitor segment with advanced technology.

• GlassLewis, Support for Most Yongpung Proposals; Opposition to Yongpung Precision's 'Stock Dividend' Proposal

  ➀ GlassLewis supports most proposals by Yongpung but opposes the stock dividend proposal submitted by Yongpung Precision, citing a lack of clear rationale on how the dividend will enhance shareholder value.

  ➁ GlassLewis recommends maintaining the company's current dividend policy, stating it is more reasonable at this time.

  ➂ The firm also opposes the candidacy of Kim Kyung-yul for external director, citing the presence of another individual with similar expertise on the audit committee, while supporting Yongpung's recommendation of Jeon Young-jun.

• Samsung Unveils First Glasses-Free 3D Monitor

  ➀ Samsung Electronics is targeting the premium monitor market with its 2025 gaming and high-resolution monitors.

  ➁ The company has introduced 'Odyssey 3D', the first glasses-free 3D gaming monitor in South Korea.

  ➂ The new monitor is part of Samsung's strategy to lead innovations in the gaming and high-resolution display sectors.

• Samsung Electronics Releases First Glasses-Free 3D Monitor in Korea

  ➀ Samsung Electronics has unveiled its 2025 premium gaming and high-resolution monitor, entering the premium monitor market.

  ➁ The new model, 'Odyssey OLED G8', is the first glasses-free 3D monitor in Korea.

  ➂ The launch marks a significant step for Samsung in expanding its presence in the high-end display industry.

March 24

• Korea Zinc Changes Articles of Incorporation, Sustainbest Supports Amendment but Opposes Director Candidates

  ➀ Korea Zinc held a temporary shareholders' meeting on January 23rd in Seoul, where domestic voting rights advisory firm Sustainbest recommended approval of the company's articles of incorporation amendment but advised against the director candidates proposed by Yongpoong and MBK Partners.

  ➁ Sustainbest advised supporting the amendment proposals including director limit settings, separate election of auditors, appointment of external directors, and changes to dividend standards and quarterly dividends. However, they opposed the appointment of 17 new directors proposed by Yongpoong and MBK Partners, suggesting that electing 12 new directors through a concentrated voting system would be more appropriate.

  ➂ There is a divergence in opinions between Korea Zinc, Yongpoong, and MBK Partners regarding Sustainbest's analysis report, with Korea Zinc and its current management supporting the proposals to maintain the existing management structure and enhance shareholder value, while Yongpoong and MBK accuse Chairman Choi Yun-beom of dominance and illegal behavior leading to damage in the corporate governance structure.

• HD Hyundai Heavy Industries Cautious About US Investments, Different Path from Hanwha Ocean

  ➀ HD Hyundai Heavy Industries is taking a cautious approach towards acquiring U.S. shipyards, unlike Hanwha Ocean's aggressive investment strategy. The company is considering various variables such as profitability and risk, especially given the declining U.S. shipbuilding industry.

  ➁ The potential cost and time required to normalize the operations of acquired U.S. shipyards pose significant challenges. The policy environment in the U.S. also adds to the uncertainty, with the possibility of policy shifts due to changes in administration.

  ➂ HD Hyundai Heavy Industries plans to focus on utilizing its existing infrastructure to cater to the U.S. naval MRO market, having already set up a military support center in the Philippines.

• Samsung Electronics Chairman Lee Jae-yong Attends China Forum, Resuming Global Business Activities

  ➀ Samsung Electronics Chairman Lee Jae-yong visits China to attend the China Development Forum (CDF) in Beijing, marking his first overseas trip since being acquitted in a retrial. This visit signals the resumption of his global business activities.

  ➁ The CDF, hosted by the China Development Research Foundation (CDRF), aims to strengthen high-level communication between China and the world, with this year's theme focusing on promoting comprehensive development momentum and stable global economic growth.

  ➂ Chairman Lee's visit also includes meetings with global business leaders such as Apple CEO Tim Cook and Broadcom CEO Hock Tan, as well as a visit to Xiaomi's electric vehicle factory, indicating potential expansion in the automotive semiconductor and premium display markets.

• Samsung's 'AI Subscription Club' Surpasses 200 Billion KRW in Sales in Just Two Months

  ➀ Samsung's 'AI Subscription Club' has recorded over 200 billion KRW (approximately $154 million) in sales just two months after launch. The service began in December of last year.

  ➁ The company expects annual sales from the subscription business to reach 1 trillion KRW (approximately $771 million).

  ➂ The subscription model has gained popularity, with refrigerators accounting for 30% of sales and subscription usage doubling since December. This has also boosted sales of Samsung's Neo QLED and OLED TVs by more than 10% year-over-year.

• Brother releases ultra-lightweight printer, size of a printer and weighing 610 grams

  ➀ Brother has released the PJ-863, its smallest and lightest pressure-based printer in the Korean market, weighing 610 grams and sized at 26 cm.

  ➁ The compact design is optimized for professionals who need to print documents on the go, such as medical staff, delivery personnel, and public officials.

  ➂ The PJ-863 does not require ink or toner, using heat-sensitive paper, and offers multiple connectivity options including Bluetooth and USB for compatibility with mobile devices. The price is 1,134,030 KRW (approximately $960), with a one-year quality warranty.

• Samsung Develops XR Glasses 'HAEAN' Following Smartphone Success

  ➀ Samsung Electronics is developing smart glasses, named 'HAEAN', with a target release by the end of this year.

  ➁ Unlike virtual reality (VR) headsets that completely cover the eyes, these smart glasses are worn like regular eyewear and display information and video on the lens, with audio delivered through the frame.

  ➂ The glasses are expected to be convenient for outdoor and mobile use, and Samsung is focusing on custom-fit designs and integrating camera and sensor technology for gesture recognition. Additionally, Samsung may release both glasses-type and head-mounted XR devices by the end of the year.

• Cadence and Intel Foundry Expand Collaboration in Aerospace and Defense

  ➀ Cadence is expanding its collaboration with Intel Foundry to enhance capabilities for high-performance computing (HPC), artificial intelligence (AI), and aerospace & defense industries.

  ➁ Cadence has officially joined Intel Foundry's 'Accelerator Design Services Alliance', which was launched in 2022 to expand Intel's foundry ecosystem.

  ➂ The collaboration will focus on providing IP, EDA tools, and services for semiconductor design, with specialized solutions for HPC, AI, and IoT, and will be particularly significant in the aerospace and defense sectors.

• AI Digital Textbooks Monitoring for Smooth Operations

  ➀ AI digital textbooks are being introduced to educational settings, prompting industry preparations for smooth operations.

  ➁ Over the weekend, staff from textbook publishers, along with the Naver Cloud AI Digital Textbook Joint Control Center, monitored the traffic and server operations of AI digital textbooks in Seoul's Gangnam district.

  ➂ The Korea Textbook Association is involved in these monitoring efforts to ensure efficient deployment.