SemiVoice

March 13

• MagnaChip Finally Exits DDI Business, Focuses on Power Semiconductors

  ➀ MagnaChip has decided to exit the DDI (Display Driver IC) business due to intensifying competition and will focus solely on power semiconductors. The decision was formalized after a recent board meeting.

  ➁ MagnaChip was established in 2004 when Hynix Semiconductor (now SK Hynix) spun off its non-memory division. The company attempted to sell to Chinese fund WISE Road Capital in 2021, but the deal was blocked by U.S. regulators due to potential technology leakage concerns.

  ➂ The company plans to invest 65-70 million USD in its Gumi factory over the next three years for power semiconductors and aims to release over 40 new power semiconductor products this year. CEO Kim Young-joon mentioned that this decision, though difficult, will aid in achieving the '3-3-3 strategy' target of 30% gross profit margin and 300 million USD in sales within three years.

• MagnaChip Releases 25 New 6th Gen SJ MOSFET Products for AI, Industrial, and Smart Home Applications

  ➀ MagnaChip has released 25 new 6th generation SJ MOSFET products, significantly expanding its product lineup for AI, industrial applications, and smart home devices.

  ➁ The new 6th gen SJ MOSFETs feature a 23% improvement in switching speed and a 40% reduction in on-resistance per unit area compared to the previous generation, with a 40% increase in performance index (FOM).

  ➂ The new products are available in 600V, 650V, and 700V voltage ranges and come in seven different packages, making them suitable for high power efficiency applications such as AI TVs, smart refrigerators, AI laptop chargers, and power supply devices.

• LG Crew 5th Batch Launched with Focus on Future Customer Experience

  ➀ LG Electronics has launched the 5th batch of LG Crew at LG Science Park in Magok, with 16 university students selected through a competitive process.

  ➁ The LG Crew, composed of college students since 2021, aims to deeply understand future customers and share insights for customer experience innovation.

  ➂ This year's LG Crew will work on projects related to Z generation communication, products, and services for six months, with support from external expert lectures and mentoring.

• Doosan Enerbility Signs 2.2 Trillion Won Gas Power Plant Contract in Saudi Arabia

  ➀ Doosan Enerbility has signed a contract worth 2.2 trillion won for the construction of the Saudi Arabia Ruma1 and Naeeriya1 gas-fired power plants.

  ➁ The project, to be completed by 2028, will be carried out under an EPC (Engineering, Procurement, and Construction) contract, involving full processes from design to equipment supply, installation, and test operations.

  ➂ This project reflects the increasing energy demand in the Middle East and demonstrates Doosan Enerbility's construction expertise and competitiveness on the international stage.

• Samsung Pre-sales 'Bespoke AI Combo' with 20% Increased Drying Capacity

  ➀ Samsung has begun pre-sales of its 2025 model 'Bespoke AI Combo' washer-dryer with an increased drying capacity of 18kg, the largest in Korea. The drying capacity has been improved compared to previous models.

  ➁ The new model features a 7-inch touchscreen 'AI Home' system, allowing users to monitor connected home appliances via home floor plans or smart things. It also includes advanced Bixby voice control.

  ➂ Energy consumption efficiency has been improved, with 45% lower power consumption compared to the lowest standard for energy efficiency grade 1 of drum washing machines published by the Korean Energy Agency. Other features include 'AI Custom+', 'Auto Open Door+', and 'AI Detergent Auto Dispense'.

• AI Analyzed Neighborhood Dust Information Sees Increased Demand from Construction Companies and Air Appliances

  ➀ K-Weather utilizes AI technology to produce detailed neighborhood-specific dust information, addressing the limitations of current government dust monitoring networks.

  ➁ The company's Air365 service provides real-time, hyper-local dust data by integrating national network data with measurements from its own IoT devices.

  ➂ Increased demand for precise dust information is observed from construction companies and air appliance manufacturers for operational and protective planning.

• Super Solution Participates in 'Korea National Market Expo 2025', Strengthening Position in Domestic Servers

  ➀ Super Solution participated in the 'Korea National Market Expo 2025', showcasing its domestically produced 'SUSOL' server series.

  ➁ The expo, held from May 5th to 7th at Kintex, was the largest ever and featured a range of IT solutions and digital technologies.

  ➂ Super Solution's 2U rack server, equipped with 12 hot-swap HDD bays and AMD EPYC 9005 processor, supports complex machine learning and inference applications, drawing significant attention from visitors.

• Intel Appoints Former Cadence CEO Lip-Bu Tan as New Chief Executive

  ➀ Intel has appointed Lip-Bu Tan, former CEO of Cadence Design Systems, as its new CEO, effective March 18th.

  ➁ Tan served as CEO of Cadence from 2008 to 2021, doubling the company's revenue and establishing a competitive duopoly with Synopsys.

  ➂ He has been a member of Intel's board of directors for two years, from 2022 to 2024.

March 12

• LG Electronics Showcases Accessibility-Enhanced Solutions at World's Largest Accessibility Conference

  ➀ LG Electronics presented accessibility-enhanced solutions at the world's largest accessibility conference 'CSUN AT 2025'.

  ➁ The new kiosk features height adjustment and a tactile keypad, making it easier for wheelchair users and shorter customers to use.

  ➂ LG Electronics also showcased solutions to enhance user experience with accessories and software updates for home appliances and TVs.

• FITI Test Institute Opens 'Circular Economy Innovation Support Center' in Cheongju

  ➀ The FITI Test Institute has opened the 'Circular Economy Innovation Support Center' in Cheongju, North Chungcheong Province, to promote green mobility and the circular economy.

  ➁ The center, established with a total project cost of 24.4 billion KRW (approximately 18.9 million USD), features advanced facilities for battery and motor testing, fire safety, and environmental testing.

  ➂ The center aims to support the development of remanufacturing technologies, establish standards for the remanufacturing industry, and contribute to carbon reduction efforts, positioning itself as a hub for sustainable green mobility innovation.

• Puyodi Digital Donates Advanced Laptops to Goyang City Children's Center

  ➀ Puyodi Digital donated touch-function and stylus-supported laptops worth approximately 8 million KRW to the Goyang City Children's Center.

  ➁ The donation event was attended by Puyodi Digital CEO Choi Woo-sik and Goyang Mayor Lee Dong-hwan, who discussed ongoing cooperation for child welfare.

  ➂ Puyodi Digital plans to continue its social contribution activities in collaboration with Goyang welfare centers.

• Samsung QLED TV Quantum Dot Technology Excellence Certified for 'Cadmium-Free'

  ➀ Samsung QLED TV has received certification from global certification body SGS for the excellence of its 'cadmium-free' quantum dot technology.

  ➁ The 'quantum dot film' used in QLED TVs has been certified to meet the Restriction of Hazardous Substances (RoHS) standards, confirming both its technical superiority and safety for viewing environments.

  ➂ Samsung has been researching quantum dot technology since 2001 and in 2014, became the first in the world to develop cadmium-free quantum dot materials. The company has since led the eco-friendly display market and holds over 150 patents related to this technology.

• LX Hausys Selected as 'Industry Mover' in S&P Sustainability Assessment

  ➀ LX Hausys has been selected as an 'Industry Mover' in the '2024 Corporate Sustainability Assessment (CSA)' by S&P Global.

  ➁ The Industry Mover designation is awarded to companies that show the highest increase in ESG management scores within their industry, with LX Hausys being the only company in the building materials sector to receive this recognition.

  ➂ The company's efforts in climate change strategy, environmental policy, risk management, and continuous carbon reduction activities were highlighted as key factors in its selection. Additionally, LX Hausys has been listed in the 'S&P Sustainability Management Annual Report' for the first time.

• Gloquadtek's Insulation Monitoring Device Receives UL and CE Certification, Enhancing Fast Charging Safety for Electric Vehicles

  ➀ Gloquadtek, a leading company in electric vehicle charging communication solutions, has announced that its Insulation Monitoring Device (GQ-IMD) has obtained UL and CE certifications, marking a first in the industry.

  ➁ The GQ-IMD, designed to enhance safety in high-voltage fast charging systems for electric vehicles, meets international standards such as IEC61851-23 Ed2.0 and UL2231-2, simplifying the certification process for charging equipment.

  ➂ The device features a real-time insulation resistance monitoring function, protected by Gloquadtek's patents, which detects and responds to insulation anomalies during vehicle charging, ensuring protection for both users and equipment.

• HD Hyundai and TerraPower Join Forces for SMR Collaboration

  ➀ HD Hyundai and its subsidiary HD Hyundai Heavy Industries have signed a strategic agreement with TerraPower to expand the manufacturing supply chain for the commercialization of sodium-cooled reactors.

  ➁ The collaboration aims to combine HD Hyundai's manufacturing expertise with TerraPower's advanced SMR technology to facilitate the commercialization of sodium-cooled reactors.

  ➂ The companies plan to develop optimized manufacturing solutions for the core components of the sodium-cooled reactors, building a foundation for large-scale commercial production.

• Lotte Chemical to supply recycled materials for Samsung Electronics Galaxy S25

  ➀ Lotte Chemical will supply recycled plastic materials for Samsung Electronics' Galaxy S25 smartphone.

  ➁ The recycled polycarbonate (PC) material is derived from waste wafer trays used in semiconductor wafer transport, and will be used in the SIM tray and side keys of the Galaxy S25.

  ➂ Lotte Chemical is also supplying recycled polyamide (PA) material made from discarded fishing nets for speaker modules and other internal components of the Galaxy S25, contributing to environmental protection.

March 11

• Shinil Electronics Releases 'Wireless 100℃ Tumbler'

  ➀ Shinil Electronics has released a 'Wireless 100℃ Tumbler' that can heat water to 100℃ in 3 minutes for hot water and 14 minutes for cold water. It features four temperature settings (100°C, 80°C, 60°C, 45°C), making it suitable for various uses such as tea, coffee, instant noodles, and baby formula. It can keep water warm for more than 10 hours.

  ➁ The tumbler has a generous capacity of 420ml, sufficient for 1-2 people, and is made from hygienic and durable premium 316 stainless steel. It comes with a dedicated cover and handle for easy transport and storage, making it convenient for outdoor activities.

  ➂ The 'Wireless 100℃ Tumbler' is equipped with an LG Energy Solution battery with a capacity of 4800mAh, making it portable for in-flight use. A Shinil Electronics representative expressed expectations that the tumbler will be useful not only for camping, hiking, and travel but also in daily life.

• LS Eco Energy Supplies Power Cables to Philippine Data Center

  ➀ LS Eco Energy, through its Vietnamese subsidiary LS Vina, has supplied medium and low voltage power cables to the largest data center (IDC) in the Philippines, 'STT Fairview Campus'.

  ➁ The data center, located near Manila in Quezon City, has a total IT capacity of 124 MW and serves as core infrastructure for AI and cloud companies.

  ➂ STT GDC, a Singapore-based IDC specialist operating over 110 facilities worldwide, is leading the construction. LS Eco Energy plans to aggressively target the Southeast Asian IDC market, expecting it to grow by more than 10% annually through 2028.

• Hanwha Ocean Successfully Develops High Infrared Stealth Coating for Next-Gen Naval Vessels

  ➀ Hanwha Ocean has successfully developed a high infrared stealth coating for use on next-gen naval vessels, which is expected to significantly enhance operational capabilities and survivability.

  ➁ The coating reflects over 80% of near-infrared rays and reduces internal temperature increase by up to 40%, marking it as a top-tier technology in the industry.

  ➂ The new coating is also expected to improve the stealth functionality of vessels and increase energy efficiency by up to 14% by reducing the need for cooling systems.

• Youngwoo Electronics Plans to Buy Back Shares and Split Stock by 2026 March

  ➀ Youngwoo Electronics has decided to buy back and cancel all treasury shares by March 2026 to enhance shareholder value, as it is considered a significantly undervalued stock with a low price-to-book ratio (PBR).

  ➁ To increase liquidity and activate trading, the company will also conduct a 10:1 stock split, reducing the par value from 5,000 won to 500 won per share.

  ➂ The company aims to achieve 2 trillion won in sales and a 4.5% operating profit margin by 2033, while returning 30% of net income to shareholders through dividends as part of its long-term shareholder value maximization strategy.

• KEA Re-elects Han Jong-hee as Chairman, Vows to Develop TechGPT

  ➀ Han Jong-hee, Vice Chairman of Samsung Electronics, has been re-elected as Chairman of the Korean Electronics Association (KEA). He will serve a three-year term until March 2028.

  ➁ Han Jong-hee stated that KEA will take a leading role in helping the electronics and IT industry sustain growth amidst rapid changes in the trade environment and economic uncertainties.

  ➂ KEA plans to develop 'TechGPT', an AI-based platform that will use generative AI to explore global technology, corporate, and talent information. The platform will be built by 2028 and will utilize over 110 million patents and 220 million academic papers from various countries. KEA also plans to launch pilot services for 3 out of 16 planned services starting in October.

• DeepX Appoints Former NXP Executive as US President

  ➀ DeepX has appointed a former NXP executive as the president of its US branch. The executive, with over 20 years of experience in major semiconductor and IT companies like ST-Ericsson, Texas Instruments, and NXP, has extensive experience in hardware design, technical marketing, and sales across mobile, automotive, and home entertainment sectors.

  ➁ The new US president emphasized that AI semiconductors require a close integration of hardware and software to maximize performance. He aims to contribute to DeepX's business expansion by delivering technologically differentiated solutions and customer-tailored solutions that can compete globally.

  ➂ DeepX also revealed plans to establish a Taiwan branch in the first half of this year to strengthen its business operations.

• Korea Robot Industry Association to Launch 'Robot Parts Committee'

  ➀ The Korea Robot Industry Association will launch the 'Robot Parts Committee' on the 26th to build a network of cooperation among robot parts companies.

  ➁ A kick-off meeting will be held at the association's office on the same day to discuss the operational direction and elect the first committee chairman.

  ➂ The committee aims to expand the demand for robot parts and lead global market expansion, especially as humanoid robots are designated as a national advanced strategic technology, increasing the importance of core components like actuators, control systems, and sensors.

• Korea Robot Industry Association Holds 'Robot Employment Week' to Secure Talent

  ➀ The Korea Robot Industry Association recently held the 3rd 'Robot Employment Week in Gangnam' to help secure talent for the rapidly growing robotics industry.

  ➁ The event saw participation from major robotics companies such as Doosan Robotics, HD Hyundai Robotics, HL Mando, HL Robotics, and Everybot.

  ➂ The participating companies introduced their firms and provided information on their hiring plans, along with group mentoring and mock interviews.

• Broadcom Denies Interest in Acquiring Intel's Chip Design Business

  ➀ Broadcom CEO Hock Tan stated that the company is not interested in acquiring Intel's chip design business, citing their focus on AI and VMware.

  ➁ This comes after reports from The Wall Street Journal suggested that Broadcom was discussing a potential bid for Intel's chip design and marketing business.

  ➂ Tan also highlighted Broadcom's expansion in the AI ASIC business and their progress with 2nm XPU semiconductor development using advanced 3.5D packaging technology.

• Korea Zinc Accuses MBK Partners of Abusing Cumulative Voting System to Seize Board Control

  ➀ Korea Zinc has criticized MBK Partners for attempting to abuse the cumulative voting system to seize control of the company's board.

  ➁ The company stated that the plan by MBK and Yongpung to convene another extraordinary shareholders meeting before the regular meeting is a clear misuse of shareholder rights.

  ➂ Korea Zinc emphasized that if MBK's plan succeeds, the board will become unwieldy and focused solely on facilitating hostile M&A, rather than constructive discussions for the company's development.

March 10

• KETI Developing Avatar Robots for Medical, Construction, and Disaster Sites

  ➀ The Korea Electronics Technology Institute (KETI) is dedicated to developing 'avatar robots' for deployment in medical institutions, construction sites, and disaster areas.

  ➁ Researchers at KETI's Intelligent Robotics Research Center in Seongnam are testing these robots to accurately mimic real-time upper body movements and finger motions.

  ➂ The avatar robots are designed to assist in various fields, enhancing capabilities in healthcare, construction, and emergency response situations.

• Samsung to Conduct 2025 First Half Recruitment Drive Amid Global Uncertainty

  ➀ Samsung is conducting a recruitment drive from March 10 to 17, 2025, through its Samsung Careers website, despite global economic uncertainty and slowdown.

  ➁ The recruitment involves 16 affiliates including Samsung Electronics, Samsung Display, and Samsung SDI, aiming to hire around 10,000 employees this year as part of its plan to hire 80,000 new employees from 2022 to 2026.

  ➂ Unlike big tech companies like Intel and Meta that have been downsizing, Samsung continues to expand its workforce, with the number of employees steadily increasing over the years to enhance its R&D competitiveness.

• Raon Semiconductor Achieves First Export of Intelligent Power Modules

  ➀ Raon Semiconductor has begun mass production of Intelligent Power Modules (IPM) and exported them to China. This marks a significant achievement one year after development began, drawing attention for localizing a product that was previously dependent on foreign imports.

  ➁ The IPMs are essential components used in appliances like refrigerators, air conditioners, and industrial equipment such as servo motors and robotic arms. The modules have been supplied to three Chinese companies that manufacture industrial parts and equipment.

  ➂ Raon Semiconductor plans to expand its business to European markets and further develop its product lineup, including a 1200V IPM series, with participation in the upcoming PCIM Europe exhibition.

• Development of Remote-Controlled Avatar Robots

  ➀ The Korea Electronics Technology Institute (KETI) is dedicated to developing 'avatar robots' for use in medical institutions, construction sites, and disaster areas.

  ➁ Researchers at KETI's Intelligent Robotics Research Center in Seongnam are testing avatar robots that can precisely follow real-time upper body movements and finger motions.

  ➂ The development aims to deploy these robots in various practical scenarios, enhancing efficiency and safety.