SemiVoice

July 7

• SK Energy and S-Oil Extend Contracts with Discount Gas Stations... Focus on Domestic Market Amid Uncertainty

  ➀ SK Energy and S-Oil extend petroleum supply contracts with discount gas stations (e.g., Korea Petroleum Corporation, Nonghyup Economic Holdings) until at least September 2026, with options to extend to 2027;

  ➁ The decision prioritizes stable domestic market share over higher profitability amid global economic uncertainty and volatile oil prices, leveraging discount stations’ nationwide sales network;

  ➂ Industry voices call for policy adjustments to balance supplier profitability and market stability, as current low-margin contracts may face challenges if export conditions improve.

• Park Systems to Double AFM Production Line in Suwon

  ➀ Park Systems is doubling its atomic force microscope (AFM) production capacity in Suwon, South Korea, aiming to reach a sales target of 400 billion KRW (approximately $307 million USD) by expanding its current facilities post-headquarters relocation to Gwacheon.

  ➁ The company plans to retain its Suwon production site while moving its headquarters, with long-term goals to build a new factory in Uiwang by 2029. Clients include major semiconductor firms like Samsung, SK Hynix, Micron, and TSMC.

  ➂ With an annual revenue growth of 27.4% from 2019 to 2024, Park Systems targets sustained 20% yearly growth, driven by rising demand for precision measurement tools in the semiconductor industry.

• HD Hyundai Joins Hands with India's Largest State-Owned Shipyard to Expand Global Market Influence

  ➀ HD Hyundai partners with India's Cochin Shipyard through an MOU, focusing on design support, technology collaboration, and workforce training to strengthen India's maritime industry;

  ➁ The partnership aligns with India's ₹250 billion (~$3 billion) maritime development fund and Vision 2030, as the nation's shipbuilding/repair market surged from $90 million (2022) to $1.12 billion (2024), with 60% annual growth projected until 2033;

  ➂ The collaboration aims to bolster HD Hyundai's global competitiveness while supporting India's shipbuilding modernization, leveraging HD's expertise for mutual growth.

• Some Models of AtHome Minix Food Waste Disposers Halted from Sales Due to Non-compliant Radio Wave Certification Notice

  ➀ AtHome Minix suspended sales of its 'The Flender' food waste disposer after failing Korea’s radio wave compliance test (17,000+ units affected);

  ➁ The company is offering free inspections and circuit replacements, with plans to re-release an improved version;

  ➂ South Korea’s food waste disposer market (₩330 billion/$254 million in 2024) is projected to reach ₩1 trillion/$769 million by 2027, with LG Electronics planning entry.

July 6

• [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.

• [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.

• 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.

• 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.

• [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.

• 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.

• 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.

• 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.'

July 5

• 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.

• 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.

• 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.

• 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.

• 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.

• 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.

• 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.

July 4

• 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.

• 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.

• 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.

• 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'.

• 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.

• 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.

• 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.

• 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.

• 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.

July 3

• BASF Relocates Electronic Materials Headquarters to Taiwan

  ➀ BASF announced the relocation of its Electronic Materials division headquarters from Germany to Taipei, Taiwan, to accelerate innovation in semiconductor and electronic materials and leverage Taiwan's strategic position as a semiconductor hub;

  ➁ The move aims to enhance collaboration with key customers in East Asia and the U.S., while improving services for display and metal system industries;

  ➂ Leadership changes include Jens Liebermann as Senior Vice President overseeing global electronic materials, with Moritz Ehrenstein succeeding him as VP of semiconductor materials, both leveraging their experience to strengthen customer partnerships.

• SEMI Publishes Korean Translation of Semiconductor Safety Standard 'SEMI S2'

  ➀ SEMI released the Korean version of its core safety standard 'SEMI S2', which governs semiconductor equipment design and safety evaluation globally but had previously been available only in English;

  ➁ The translation involved collaboration among 26 experts, including EHS specialists from Samsung and SK Hynix, to ensure accuracy, particularly for updates like high-pressure systems and fire prevention measures;

  ➂ SEMI has established 30 safety standards over 50 years, with S2 being the most critical document influencing semiconductor manufacturing practices.