Samsung’s 240 billion won investment boosts Gwangju semiconductor plans

Samsung has started a major investment in Gwangju, South Korea, to support the semiconductor industry in the region. The company recently held a groundbreaking ceremony for a new heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) production line at its Gwangju plant. These systems are important for semiconductor factories.

The Korean Tech giant will invest 240 billion won in the new facility. The company plans to complete the project and start operations in the first half of 2028. The facility is also expected to create around 300 new jobs.

This is Samsung’s biggest investment in Gwangju since the company opened its plant there in 1989. It is also the company’s first semiconductor-related investment in the Honam region. Samsung has also announced plans to build two semiconductor factories in Gwangju as part of its larger investment plans.

Meanwhile, Amkor Technology Korea is planning to expand its semiconductor packaging operations in Gwangju. The company plans to invest about 1 trillion won by 2035 and build six new production facilities.

A major wastewater issue related to Amkor’s expansion has also been solved. Gwangju City and Jangseong County plan to treat around 3,500 tons of wastewater produced every day by connecting the facilities to an existing wastewater treatment plant.

Together, these projects could help Gwangju develop a complete semiconductor industry. The region could bring together chip manufacturing, packaging, testing, equipment, materials, and research facilities.

Local officials also plan to improve important infrastructure, including electricity and water supplies, to support the growth of the semiconductor cluster.