SK hynix and Jeonnam Gwangju partner on Honam semiconductor cluster

Jeonnam Gwangju Integrated Special City and SK hynix have initiated a collaborative effort to establish a semiconductor cluster in the Honam region. Min Hyeong-bae, the Mayor of Jeonnam Gwangju, visited SK hynix’s Icheon campus to meet with CEO Kwak Noh-jung to discuss the development of a regional semiconductor production hub.

The discussions focused on the long-term role of the production base, the creation of a national industrial complex, site conditions for the commencement of the first semiconductor fab, and future expansion possibilities. The local government plans to secure essential infrastructure, including land, power, and water, to support production. The vision includes utilizing approximately 2.5 million pyeong of the Gwangju military airport site to break ground on four semiconductor fabs, aiming for a mass production system by 2030.

CEO Kwak Noh-jung emphasized that large-scale projects require significant support from local governments, stating, “A large-scale project cannot be promoted by the strength of a company alone.” Mayor Min pledged to provide proactive administrative support to ensure the success of the investment, describing it as a historic decision for the Honam region.