Quincy Toffler
South Korea is set to revolutionize its semiconductor landscape with a groundbreaking investment of KRW36.4 billion (approximately US$24.79 million) aimed at advancing next-generation semiconductor technologies by 2025. The announcement from the Ministry of Trade, Industry, and Energy (MOTIE) outlines a comprehensive plan to boost sectors like Processing-In-Memory (PIM) chips, advanced packaging, and on-device AI semiconductors, among others.
Focused Development in PIM Chips
A significant portion of the funds, KRW17.9 billion, will be directed towards the development of PIM chips over a 3 to 4-year timeline. These funds will aid in enhancing memory interfaces and developing commercialization platforms using PIM computing architectures. Additionally, the focus will include technologies for SCM control semiconductors and manufacturing equipment based on pioneering memory solutions like phase-change memory (PRAM) and magnetic random access memory (MRAM).
Boost to Advanced Packaging and AI Semiconductors
The advanced packaging sector stands to gain KRW17.8 billion for 13 new projects, aimed at strengthening technologies and materials crucial to the industry, with development cycles stretching between 3 to 7 years. Meanwhile, KRW4.3 billion will be funneled into on-device AI semiconductor projects, targeting innovations in edge computing chips that power low-energy robotics and industrial automation systems.
Enhanced Focus on System and Compound Power Semiconductors
System semiconductor ventures will receive KRW10.5 billion, targeting key industrial areas such as automotive and biotechnology. In another initiative, KRW21.1 billion is earmarked for compound power semiconductors, promoting advancements in power conversion and integrated circuits over a 4-year development timeline.
Expanding Manufacturing Capabilities and Technology
The strategy includes the establishment of mini fabs dedicated to 12-inch wafers and key semiconductor processes, with an eye on strengthening Korea’s domestic supply chain and global competitiveness. With the new K-Sensor Tech Development Project drawing an investment of KRW30.2 billion, innovation in sensor technology will be a pivotal focus.
Overall, this strategic investment underscores South Korea’s commitment to leading advancements in semiconductor technology and positioning itself as a key player on the global stage.
South Korea’s Pioneering Step Ahead in Semiconductor Technologies
South Korea is setting the stage for a transformative leap in the semiconductor industry with a substantial investment of KRW36.4 billion (approximately US$24.79 million) by 2025. This ambitious initiative, spearheaded by the Ministry of Trade, Industry, and Energy (MOTIE), aims to propel next-generation semiconductor technologies, specifically honing in on innovative sectors such as Processing-In-Memory (PIM) chips, advanced packaging, and on-device AI semiconductors.
Groundbreaking Developments in PIM Chips
A substantial KRW17.9 billion allocation is aimed at the development of PIM chips, marking a significant thrust towards enhancing memory interfaces and easing the commercialization of PIM computing platforms. These chips, pivotal for smart computing solutions, focus on advanced memory technologies such as phase-change memory (PRAM) and magnetic random access memory (MRAM).
Advancements in Advanced Packaging and AI Semiconductors
The investment of KRW17.8 billion across 13 projects in the advanced packaging sector represents South Korea’s commitment to bolstering crucial technologies and materials over a 3 to 7-year period. Additionally, a dedicated KRW4.3 billion will drive innovation in on-device AI semiconductor projects, which are essential for low-energy robotics and cutting-edge industrial automation systems.
Investing in System and Compound Power Semiconductors
South Korea’s strategy includes a KRW10.5 billion investment in system semiconductors, targeting critical industries such as automotive and biotechnology. Furthermore, an impressive KRW21.1 billion for compound power semiconductors will facilitate advancements in power conversion and integrated circuits, aiming for completion over four years.
Enhancing Manufacturing Capabilities
A core component of this strategic investment is the establishment of mini fabs for 12-inch wafers, a move intended to fortify Korea’s domestic supply chain and enhance its global competitiveness. Notably, the K-Sensor Tech Development Project will see a KRW30.2 billion injection, focusing on sensor technology innovation.
Overall, this formidable investment illustrates South Korea’s dedication to leading the global charge in semiconductor advancements. The country’s strategic focus on cutting-edge technologies, alongside substantial investments, poises South Korea as an emerging titan in the semiconductor domain, paving the way for future-forward technology landscapes.
For more information, visit Ministry of Trade, Industry, and Energy (MOTIE).
