韓國半導體產業協會主席呼籲政府及時投資

Song Jae-hyuk, chairman of the Korea Semiconductor Industry Association, speaks at the 19th Semiconductor Day ceremony at the Grand InterContinental Seoul Parnas in Gangnam, Seoul, on Oct. 21. (Photo: THE ELEC)

The Korea Semiconductor Industry Association (KSIA) has called on the government to take proactive administrative measures to support the growth of semiconductor companies.

Song Jae-hyuk, chairman of the KSIA and president of Samsung Electronics, said at the 19th Semiconductor Day ceremony held at the Grand InterContinental Seoul Parnas in Gangnam on Oct. 21 that timely investment is the most important factor for the semiconductor industry. “We hope the government will support companies in developing new technologies and investing at the right time through proactive infrastructure development, expedited permits and approvals, and bold, swift policy support,” he said.

As competition in semiconductor technology intensifies between countries, governments are stepping up investment. “Major countries around the world are fostering semiconductors as a national strategic industry and competing fiercely,” Song said. “Competitiveness is determined by foundational technologies, which emerge from continuous challenges and proactive investment.”

Song also highlighted new opportunities arising from the expansion of the artificial intelligence (AI) market. “As the AI era gains momentum, advanced semiconductors offering high performance and high bandwidth are becoming increasingly important,” he said. “The technological capabilities and competitiveness that Korean companies have built over many years are attracting attention in the global market.”

He also pledged to support talent development through the association. “We will continue investing in advanced manufacturing facilities, next-generation technology development and the cultivation of outstanding talent,” Song said.

Semiconductor Day falls on Oct. 29 each year. It was established to commemorate South Korea’s achievement of $10 billion in semiconductor exports in 1994. Semiconductor exports have been increasing annually, with cumulative shipments reaching $340.3 billion through September 2026, roughly double the 2025 full-year exports of $173.4 billion.

Each year, Semiconductor Day recognizes individuals who have contributed to South Korea’s semiconductor industry with national honors. This year, 54 industry figures received government awards. The highest honor, the Gold Tower Order of Industrial Service Merit, went to Lee Jun-hyuk, chairman of Dongjin Semichem.