SemiVoice

July 7

• EcoPro BM Establishes Liaison Office in Germany to Strengthen European Market Expansion

  ➀ EcoPro BM established its first European liaison office in Munich, Germany, to enhance communication with local clients and bridge operations between its headquarters and European customers;

  ➁ The office supports the company's strategy to diversify its European customer base, with current staff including European employees;

  ➂ It will collaborate with EcoPro BM's upcoming cathode material plant in Hungary (annual capacity: 54,000 tons, operational by Q1 2026) to strengthen localization efforts and expand its European market presence.

• 10% Rebate on Top-Tier Appliances... Domestic Market to See KRW 2.6 Trillion Boost Through 'Best Appliance Program'

  ➀ South Korea's 'Best Appliance Program' rebate initiative resumed after four years, aiming to stimulate the domestic appliance market with an expected KRW 2.6 trillion (~$2.2 billion USD) sales impact;

  ➁ The government will refund up to KRW 300,000 (~$260 USD) per person for purchasing 11 energy-efficient appliances (1st-tier efficiency rating) including TVs, refrigerators, and air purifiers, with a reduced budget of KRW 267.1 billion (~$229 million USD);

  ➂ Samsung and LG launched aggressive marketing campaigns, offering additional discounts and membership points alongside the government rebate, positioning premium 1st-tier appliances at competitive price points comparable to 2nd-tier products.

• Samsung Electronics OLED TVs Receive Rave Reviews from Global Media

  ➀ Samsung Electronics' OLED TVs, including the S95F and S90F models, were acclaimed by global media outlets like T3 and TechRadar for their exceptional brightness, color accuracy, and glare-reducing Glare Free 2.0 technology;

  ➁ The S95F was named 'Best TV of the Year' and 'Best Gaming TV' by T3, praised for delivering immersive gaming and cinematic experiences, while the S90F earned 'Recommended' status for its true black performance in dark scenes;

  ➂ According to Omdia, Samsung dominated the North American OLED TV market in Q1 2025, securing 50.3% revenue share and 45.2% unit share.

• Samsung Heavy Industries Establishes Win-Win Growth Model with Small and Mid-sized Shipbuilders

  ➀ Samsung Heavy Industries signed an MOU with HSG Sungdong Shipbuilding and Geonhwa to build a cooperative growth model focused on ship pipeline construction and large ship block supply;

  ➁ The collaboration will delegate oil tanker pipeline construction to HSG Sungdong and LNG carrier block production to Geonhwa, enhancing SMEs' technical capabilities while improving Samsung's process efficiency;

  ➂ The initiative aims to strengthen long-term partnerships, expand regional employment, and boost the local economy in Gyeongnam.

July 6

• [Tech Biz Korea 2025] 〈19〉 Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology

  ➀ The Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology (KRICT) introduced a novel membrane distillation technology that uses photo-initiated chemical vapor deposition (piCVD) to apply a hydrophilic polymer coating on hydrophobic membranes, significantly enhancing anti-fouling properties;

  ➁ The technology eliminates the need for additives or solvents, reducing contamination risks, while achieving high permeation flow rates and stable purification performance;

  ➂ Expected applications include desalination, wastewater recycling, and bio/food industries, with robust performance in high-temperature, high-salinity, and oil-containing environments.

• [Tech Biz Korea 2025] 〈10〉 Korea Institute of Industrial Technology (KITECH)

  ➀ KITECH introduces non-learning AI models and mobile crusher manufacturing process quality inspection technology；

  ➁ Overcomes limitations in vision data acquisition in harsh environments (e.g., aggregate production, mining) and enables real-time AI inference integration with manufacturing equipment；

  ➂ Reduces production time, rework costs, and enhances worker safety; expected to drive demand in construction equipment and rare metal industries.

• [TechBiz Korea 2025] 〈7〉 Korea Institute of Machinery and Materials (KIMM)

  ➀ KIMM showcases ultra-precision multi-sensor technology for semiconductor process monitoring at TechBiz Korea 2025, featuring a simplified structure (narrowband filter-photodetector) with high sensitivity (SNR ≥100) and reliability (repeat error <3%), suitable for advanced semiconductor processes;

  ➁ The technology includes a microwave-based patch sensor attached to wafer surfaces to measure plasma effects during manufacturing, providing critical data for process optimization;

  ➂ Addressing limitations of conventional sensors (low accuracy and dependency on foreign specialized sensors), KIMM’s innovation is expected to drive demand in semiconductor process diagnostics and equipment development, reducing reliance on external technologies.

• Hongseong's 'One-Welfare Valley for Pets' Base Project Passes Central Investment Review

  ➀ Hongseong's 'One-Welfare Valley for Pets' project, aimed at establishing a national pet industry hub, passed the government's feasibility review with a total investment of 40 billion KRW ($30.9 million USD), including 20 billion KRW in national funding;

  ➀ The project will develop a 28,952㎡ complex by 2027, featuring research, training, and business support facilities, alongside dedicated pet outdoor activity areas;

  ➂ It focuses on creating a sustainable ecosystem integrating humans, animals, and the environment, positioning Hongseong as a leading hub for South Korea's growing pet industry.

• KBSI Introduces Low-Damage, High-Precision Surface Processing and Analysis Technology Using GCIB at Tech Biz Korea 2025

  ➀ KBSI developed Gas Cluster Ion Beam (GCIB) technology, enabling low-damage and high-precision surface processing by transforming inert gases into ion clusters, overcoming limitations of traditional ion beams that cause material damage;

  ➁ The technology allows controlled etching of materials like OLED, SiO₂, and SiC, with applications in semiconductor manufacturing, EUV mask tuning, and OLED defect detection;

  ➂ It targets industries including semiconductor/display equipment, precision instrument processing, and material analysis, offering solutions for surface cleaning and reliability improvement.

• TechBiz Korea 2025: Seeking Transfer Destinations for 135 New Technologies... Government R&D Briefing and Forums Featuring Lee Sedol and Lee Jang-won Lectures

  ➀ TechBiz Korea 2025, held in Daejeon from July 10-11, showcases 135 advanced technologies across AI, semiconductors, 6G, cybersecurity, and biotech for commercialization;

  ➁ The event features government R&D briefings by ministries, startup investment forums, and special lectures by Lee Sedol (AI ethics) and Lee Jang-won (AI in music business);

  ➂ Aims to bridge research institutions and businesses, fostering tech transfer and enhancing Daejeon’s startup ecosystem under the theme 'Where Technology Meets Business.'

• Suwon City Attracts 15 High-Tech Companies Including Bio and AI, Anticipating 481.7 Billion KRW Economic Impact

  ➀ Suwon City has signed investment agreements with 15 high-tech companies since 2022, spanning fields like biotechnology, AI, semiconductors, and gaming software, with an expected total investment of 255 billion KRW (approx. $1.96 billion USD);

  ➁ The projects are projected to generate 481.7 billion KRW (approx. $3.7 billion USD) in production output, 172 billion KRW (approx. $1.32 billion USD) in added value, and create 1,746 jobs;

  ➂ The city emphasizes its strategic advantages, including access to 5 universities, 8 vocational schools, and robust infrastructure, while expanding support policies such as funding programs and regulatory improvements.

• KIMS Develops High-Performance Thin-Film pH Sensor Based on Iridium Oxide Nanoneedles for Multiple Industries

  ➀ KIMS developed a thin-film pH sensor using precise electroplating to control IrOx nanostructure, overcoming traditional glass electrode limitations like large size and maintenance needs;

  ➁ The sensor's accelerated electron transfer and stable redox reactions enable superior pH detection accuracy compared to conventional methods;

  ➂ Its compact solid-state design allows versatile applications in water treatment, semiconductors, bio-industry, and chemical manufacturing.

July 5

• Suwon City Requests Government to Expand Military Airport Relocation Task Force with Participation of Six Agencies

  ① Suwon City proposed expanding the presidential-led intergovernmental task force for military airport relocation to include six agencies, aiming to secure national support for strategic projects;

  ② Mayor Lee Jae-jun emphasized the need for a comprehensive governmental approach to airport relocation across multiple cities including Suwon, aligning with recent presidential directives;

  ③ The city seeks national endorsement for future initiatives such as semiconductor/AI innovation clusters, green city development, and regional railway upgrades to drive balanced economic growth.

• Hanwha Aerospace Conducts 'Compliance Week' to Promote Legal Compliance Culture

  ➀ Hanwha Aerospace held its annual Compliance Week from June 30 to July 4, 2025, to enhance employee awareness and institutionalize compliance culture through seminars, executive pledges, and interactive programs;

  ➁ Activities included compliance seminars with external experts, online quizzes, and on-site engagement at regional offices, reinforcing fair trade practices and legal adherence;

  ➂ Since establishing a compliance organization in 2011, the company has prioritized compliance through audits, training, and communication, with CEO Son Jae-il emphasizing its role as a core pillar amid evolving business challenges.

• BodyFriend's B2G Sales Increase by 22.3% Year-on-Year

  ➀ BodyFriend's B2G sales grew 22.3% YoY in H1 2025, driven by public institutions (38%), senior centers (32%), and police/fire stations (30%);

  ➁ Police/fire station sales surged over 5x YoY, hitting a record high, marking three years of growth since 2022;

  ➂ Recent contracts include supplying 74 massage chairs to a Seoul senior center, with sustained growth in public sector sales for two consecutive years.

• K Shipbuilding Captures 41% of Global Orders in June...Global Orders Plunge 81%

  ➀ Global ship orders in June totaled 2.56 million CGT (84 vessels), marking a 44% month-on-month increase but an 81% year-on-year decline;

  ➁ South Korea secured 41% of orders (1.05 million CGT, 18 vessels), while China captured 53% (1.37 million CGT, 50 vessels), with Korea’s per-vessel tonnage 2.1 times higher than China’s;

  ➂ From January to June, cumulative global orders fell 54% YoY to 19.38 million CGT, with Korea and China holding 25% and 52% shares, respectively. The Clarksons Newbuilding Price Index rebounded to 187.11 in June, up 47% from June 2020.

• POSCO Collaborates with Europe's Largest Kitchen Manufacturer to Launch 'Premium Stainless Steel Sink' Product

  ➀ POSCO partners with Franke to launch eco-friendly stainless steel sinks made using 90% recycled scrap and renewable energy, reducing carbon emissions by 60% compared to standard EPD benchmarks;

  ➁ The product received third-party carbon footprint verification from TÜV SÜD and aligns with global climate regulations;

  ➂ The collaboration aims to expand low-carbon stainless steel solutions in appliances and strengthen market leadership.

• Korea IT Research Institute Successfully Holds 'Smart Product Manufacturing Enterprise Technical Support Business Briefing' on the 2nd

  ➀ The Korea IT Research Institute held a technical support briefing on July 2, 2025, introducing 2025 programs, equipment access, and R&D labs to SMEs and startups developing smart devices.

  ➁ The institute's support includes 'Open Lab' (IoT test equipment rentals), 'R&D Lab' (shared workspaces/PCs), and commercialization assistance (1:1 technical mentoring and certification).

  ➂ The initiative, part of a government project since 2021, aims to strengthen smart product competitiveness and foster future growth in manufacturing.

• Hanmi Semiconductor Begins Production of 'TC Bonder 4' Equipment for HBM4

  ➀ Hanmi Semiconductor has commenced production of the "TC Bonder 4," a critical bonding equipment for next-gen HBM4, with plans to begin global supply in the second half of 2024;

  ➁ The new equipment features significantly improved precision and structural stability tailored for HBM4 manufacturing, alongside upgraded software for enhanced user convenience;

  ➂ The company aims to support global memory manufacturers' HBM4 mass production plans and maintain leadership in the AI semiconductor market.

July 4

• LG Chem Hosts 'Career Week'... Introduces AI-Powered Career Design and Development Methods

  ➀ LG Chem held its 3rd Career Week from July 1-4, introducing AI-driven career planning tools for employees;

  ➁ The program utilizes AI for competency assessments, personalized career paths, and learning resources to enhance professional growth;

  ➂ Workshops on AI applications and executive mentoring aim to foster innovation and employee development in alignment with future business needs.

• Sony Korea Appoints Yukihiro Kitajima as New Representative

  ➀ Sony Korea announced Yukihiro Kitajima, a 33-year Sony veteran, as its new representative on July 3;

  ➁ Kitajima has extensive experience in sales, product planning, and marketing across Sony's global divisions, including roles in the UK and Singapore;

  ➂ The company expects his leadership to strengthen Sony’s product and service capabilities in the Korean market.

• VistaCom Forms Global Marketing Partnership with UK’s Cbyond

  ➀ South Korean anti-drone specialist VistaCom partners with UK defense security firm Cbyond to enhance global marketing efforts;

  ➁ Cbyond, a defense solutions provider with expertise in cybersecurity, electronic warfare, and drone defense, will support VistaCom’s international expansion;

  ➂ VistaCom recently showcased integrated anti-drone systems at a Malaysian defense expo, generating significant interest and ongoing procurement discussions with local defense companies.

• Nano Korea 2025: FirstLab Unveils Ultrasound-Based Emulsification/Dispersion Equipment

  ➀ FirstLab showcased its ultrasonic-based commercial emulsification/dispersal equipment 'Debrex 500' at Nano Korea 2025, capable of processing 300-500 kg daily without surfactants, enhancing purity and efficacy;

  ➁ The company also introduced 'Cavitox,' a PFAS decomposition device using ultrasound to address environmental concerns in semiconductor manufacturing, eliminating the need for incineration or filters;

  ➂ FirstLab won the Chairman’s Award at the event for its innovative ultrasound-focused dispersion technology.

• Schneider Electric Ranks First for Second Consecutive Year as 'World's Most Sustainable Company' by Time

  ➀ Schneider Electric secured the top position in Time and Statista's 2025 ranking of the world's most sustainable companies, marking its second consecutive year at #1 among 5,700 global firms;

  ➁ Evaluation criteria included Scope 1-2 GHG emissions, renewable energy usage (20 KPIs total), ESG performance, disclosure transparency, and external sustainability assessments;

  ➂ The company aims for 25% absolute carbon reduction across its value chain by 2030 and net-zero by 2050, supported by its SBTi-certified roadmap and SSI 2021-2025 sustainability program.

• Reuters: Intel CEO Reviews Focus on Next-Gen '14A Process'

  ➀ Intel CEO is considering halting new orders for its 18A (1.8nm) process and shifting focus to 14A (1.4nm) due to limited competitiveness against TSMC's N3 (3nm) process;

  ➁ Existing 18A projects (e.g., Panther Lake, Amazon, Microsoft) will continue production, but no new clients will be pursued;

  ➂ The board plans to discuss this strategy shift to prioritize 14A (targeted for 2027) to compete with TSMC's N2 (2nm), though Intel dismissed the report as a 'rumor'.

• Microchip Appoints Steve Sanghi as CEO... 'Accelerating Management Normalization'

  ➀ Microchip Technology appointed Steve Sanghi as CEO and President, who previously served for nearly 30 years and returned as interim CEO after Ganesh Moorthy’s retirement in November 2023;

  ➁ The company faced a 42% year-on-year revenue decline in FY2025 (April 2024–March 2025) due to reduced semiconductor demand, prompting restructuring efforts including layoffs and factory closures;

  ➂ Sanghi stated that while parts of the recovery plan are already implemented, continuous efforts are needed to restore the company to normal operations.

• Bloomberg: Siemens Lifts Semiconductor Design Software Export Restrictions to China

  ➀ Siemens informed Chinese customers of restored access to restricted semiconductor design software (EDA) under U.S. Commerce Department approval;

  ➁ The move follows U.S.-China trade negotiations, with Commerce Secretary Raimondo stating mutual easing of export controls on critical minerals and semiconductors;

  ➂ Industry observers await whether Synopsys and Cadence will also regain access, as the trio holds over 80% of China's EDA market.

• Hyundai Steel Accelerates Digital Transformation with AWS Collaboration

  ➀ Hyundai Steel signed a Strategic Framework Agreement (SFA) with AWS to accelerate digital transformation, including migrating production management systems and data analytics to AWS cloud for real-time AI-driven insights;

  ➁ The collaboration explores applying Hyundai Steel's carbon-reduced steel products in AWS global data center construction projects, aiming to reduce carbon emissions;

  ➂ The partnership aims to strengthen Hyundai Steel's global competitiveness in low-carbon steel markets and drive innovation in the steel industry through cloud and AI technologies.

July 3

• PI Advanced Materials Publishes '2024 Sustainability Management Report'

  ➀ PI Advanced Materials released its 2024 Sustainability Management Report, outlining ESG achievements, strategic directions, and comprehensive risk management frameworks.

  ➁ The company conducted a Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) for key products to quantitatively analyze environmental impacts and establish carbon reduction strategies.

  ➂ Plans include advancing a corporate-wide carbon neutrality roadmap and building a global carbon management system to align with international standards.

• I.S.E.S. Korea 2025 International Semiconductor Executive Summit to Be Held in Suwon in August

  ➀ The I.S.E.S. Korea 2025 summit, co-located with the Advanced Semiconductor Packaging Show (ASPS 2025), will take place in Suwon from August 27 to 28, 2025, gathering 150 global semiconductor executives and technical leaders;

  ➁ Key participants include Samsung Electronics, SK Hynix, NVIDIA, and other industry leaders, with a focus on AI, HBM (High Bandwidth Memory), advanced packaging, and power semiconductor innovations;

  ➂ The event will explore sustainable semiconductor technology roadmaps and collaborative strategies, featuring keynote speeches and discussions on next-gen technologies like silicon photonics and optical I/O.