HOME > Resources > Newsletters
　

Title
Korean Industrial Insight No. 19 of AI, Semiconductors, Batteries, Electric vehicles, and Bio

Author　
KH

Post Date　
2025-12-01

Read
57

Attach File
-
Ⅰ. AI INDUSTRY TRENDS

1. NVIDIA Head of AI Collaboration, “Korea Possesses 260,000 GPUs, an AI Hub Nation”

- NVIDA, “Korea advancing 13 supercomputer and 11 LLM projects; we will collaborate.”
- NVIDA hosts ‘AI Day Korea’
"Korea is already a global AI (Artificial Intelligence) hub and an AI connector nation."
Shilpa Kolhatkar, Global Head of AI Nations at NVIDA, made this statement during her speech titled 'Supporting Korea's Sovereign AI Future' at NVIDIA's 'AI Day Korea' event, held on the 18th at the COEX Grand Ballroom in Seoul.
Kolhatkar defined Korea as "a nation possessing an AI backbone built with 260,000 NVIDIA Graphics Processing Units (GPUs)," adding, "Korea is not merely an AI consumer, but an AI-producing nation." She further stated, "NVIDIA will expand its partnerships to help Korea become a global AI manufacturing powerhouse."
Earlier, NVIDIA had announced its plan to supply 260,000 GPUs to the Korean government and major companies including Samsung Electronics, SK Group, Hyundai Motor Group, and Naver Cloud, during CEO Jensen Huang's visit to Korea last month.
Kolhatkar also mentioned Korea's sovereign AI projects, conveying NVIDIA's intention to collaborate.
She explained, "In Korea, 13 supercomputers and 11 Large Language Model (LLM) projects are currently underway," adding, "Korea's sovereign AI models are significant because they create national LLMs using national data. In the government services sector, AI can also rapidly process documents and policies, providing desired answers."
According to NVIDIA, there are 332,000 developers, 780 startups participating in the NVIDIA Inception Program, and 130 generative AI startups in Korea’s AI ecosystem. Kolhatkar stated, "This is not merely growth, but a national-scale transformation occurring within Korea's AI ecosystem."
Furthermore, Kolhatkar forecasted that physical AI, following agentic AI, will become the next paradigm in the AI industry, highlighting Korea's potential in robotics.
She diagnosed, "NVIDIA has evolved from GPU chips to a platform and now to a national-scale AI utility. We are now in an era where agentic AI collaborates with humans for reasoning, planning, and execution, and physical AI, centered on robotics, will fully emerge."
She explained, "The core of physical AI lies in training robots in a digital twin environment identical to the real world, and then deploying them into actual settings." Kolhatkar added, "Korea's robotics ecosystem is growing very rapidly, and NVIDIA will actively support it."
She further evaluated, "A few weeks ago, seven innovative robotics startups gathered at a robotics conference in Korea. They demonstrated the rapid pace of development in the Korean robotics ecosystem by developing advanced AI, such as robotic hands and quadruped robots."
Kolhatkar concluded by saying, "Korea is a nation equipped with STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) talent, government strategy, and an industrial ecosystem. Korea is ready to captivate the world, and NVIDIA is proud to be part of this journey."

2. Korea Realizing ‘AI-Powered Autonomous Shipyard’ Through Industry-Academia Collaboration in Shipbuilding and AI

Korean industry and academia are collaborating to drive the 'AI transformation (AX)' of the shipbuilding and maritime industry. The initiative aims to establish 'AI-powered autonomous shipyards,' thereby elevating the competitiveness of Korea's shipbuilding and maritime industry and revitalizing the regional industrial ecosystem.
The Ministry of Science and ICT (MSIT) and the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Resources (MOTIR) announced that five key institutions—Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology (UNIST), HD Korea Shipbuilding & Offshore Engineering, HD Hyundai Heavy Industries, HD Hyundai Robotics, and the University of Ulsan—signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on the 20th at the HD Hyundai Global R&D Center in Seongnam, Gyeonggi Province.
The MOU was designed to integrate AI with Korea's globally competitive shipbuilding and maritime industry, fostering sustainable growth and mutual advancement in advanced technologies such as AI.
The five institutions will jointly pursue several key objectives. These include creating digital strategic assets for the shipbuilding and maritime industry, such as the development of specialized AI foundation models, and building a data ecosystem to enhance industrial competitiveness through knowledge and data. Their agenda also includes cultivating expert talent and revitalizing the regional industrial ecosystem.
During the signing ceremony, each organization presented its achievements in manufacturing AX and future strategies. HD Hyundai announced its commitment to successfully execute the 'MASGA' project, a shipbuilding collaboration initiative between Korea and the United States. UNIST explained its plan to leverage its accumulated AI research capabilities to serve as a leading AI innovation hub in the Busan, Ulsan, and Gyeongnam region.
MSIT will identify and improve unreasonable regulations related to data collection and utilization to ensure smooth R&D progress, applying regulatory sandboxes where appropriate. The Ministry plans to strengthen support for operating specialized AI foundation models by establishing a high-quality data pipeline.
Furthermore, MSIT intends to support regional science and technology institutes like UNIST, encouraging collaboration with companies and local universities for regional specialized AX innovation, fostering core talent, and advancing infrastructure in sectors like shipbuilding and maritime.
MOTIR's strategy includes digitizing the know-how of highly skilled workers in fields such as welding and painting, developing models for application in automated processes, and securing necessary technologies for AI-powered autonomous shipyards, such as logistics automation methods and equipment development, through continuous consultation with the industry.
Bae Kyung-hoon, Deputy Prime Minister of MSIT, stated, "This agreement will serve as a crucial stepping stone for Korea's shipbuilding and maritime industry, which faces both challenges and opportunities, and will accelerate the industry's major AI transformation." He added, "We will provide unwavering support to ensure this becomes a representative example not only for balanced national development based on regionally specialized industries but also for achieving Korea's goal of becoming one of the top three AI nations."

3. Naver Cloud Achieves Third-Year Objectives for AI Semiconductor Farm Implementation Project

Naver Cloud, as the lead organizer, announced on the 20th that it has successfully achieved the third-year objectives of the 'AI Semiconductor Farm Establishment and Demonstration Project,' overseen by the Ministry of Science and ICT (MSIT) and the National IT Industry Promotion Agency (NIPA).

This project is a national strategic initiative focused on building a high-performance cloud infrastructure based on domestically developed AI semiconductors (domestic NPUs) and validating their performance in real-world industrial settings. The project spanned three years, from May 2023 to November 2025.
Naver Cloud formed a consortium with KT Cloud and NHN Cloud, collaborating with domestic AI semiconductor companies Furiosa AI and Rebellions.
The consortium achieved all primary tasks, including: constructing a domestic AI semiconductor farm with a total computational capacity of 19.95 PetaFLOPS (PF); establishing and operating a cloud platform; and demonstrating four AI application services. Through these accomplishments, the consortium successfully validated the competitiveness of domestic NPUs.
An official from Naver Cloud stated, "Notably, in this final third year, we have achieved tangible results that significantly enhance the prospects for commercializing domestic NPUs."
Various AI services were implemented during the demonstration phase. Naver Cloud, in collaboration with Furiosa AI, demonstrated an LLM-based translation and chatbot service to facilitate smooth communication for foreign workers. KT Cloud and NHN Cloud partnered with Rebellions to develop services for the medical sector.
To objectively verify the performance of domestic NPUs, a third-party testing and inspection system was also established. AIWorks, a KOLAS (Korea Laboratory Accreditation Scheme) accredited testing and inspection agency, measured key indicators such as efficiency, stability, and response speed of the domestic NPUs. The results showed that some models demonstrated superior performance compared to foreign GPUs, thereby confirming their competitiveness and market viability.
Lee Jong-bok, Director at Naver Cloud, commented, "Moving forward, we will continue to collaborate with the government and industry to expand the AI ecosystem beyond simple semiconductor chip development, striving to apply domestic NPU technology across various industries."


Ⅱ. SEMICONDUCTOR INDUSTRY TRENDS

1. Applied Materials to Establish ‘Collaborative Innovation Center’ in Osan to Strengthen Korean Semiconductor Ecosystem

Applied Materials (AMAT), a global semiconductor equipment supplier, announced on the 20th its plan to establish the 'Applied Collaboration Center Korea' in Osan, Gyeonggi Province.
The Applied Collaboration Center Korea is designed as a central hub where AMAT engineers, key customers and partners, and top-tier domestic research and academic institutions will gather for collaboration. Its purpose is to accelerate semiconductor innovation, in response to the demands of the Artificial Intelligence (AI) era.
Specifically, the center aims to bolster cooperation across the entire Korean semiconductor ecosystem, foster the development of next-generation technologies, and contribute to cultivating local talent.
This new facility is an integral part of AMAT's EPIC platform.
The EPIC platform supports scientists, engineers, customers, suppliers, academia, and industry partners to pursue multiple research and development processes concurrently within a shared research environment.
Prabu Raja, President of AMAT's Semiconductor Products Group, emphasized, "Korea is both a global semiconductor industry hub and a crucial partner." He added, "By establishing this innovation base in Korea, we can closely provide AMAT’s engineering capabilities and resources to our customers and partners, further accelerating semiconductor innovation in the AI era through rapid co-innovation."
The president of Applied Materials Korea stated, "The Applied Collaboration Center Korea will serve as vital infrastructure, strengthening the Korean semiconductor ecosystem."
Since its establishment in 1989, Applied Materials Korea has been contributing to the advancement of Korea's semiconductor and display industries by providing advanced technologies in collaboration with domestic companies.

2. Samsung Electronics Consolidates Memory Development, Sharply Focuses on AI-driven Semiconductor Innovation

- Organizational reshuffle on the 27th. HBM Development Team integrated into DRAM Development Lab after one year
- Samsung management support office elevated, expanding planning team’s role
Samsung Electronics has announced a comprehensive organizational restructuring, including the appointment of a new head for memory development and the establishment of a 'Digital Twin Center' designed to lead the construction of its semiconductor AI factory.
This strategic move is seen as a reinforcement of the company's commitment to strengthening its future business competitiveness and solidifying its leadership in the rapidly advancing AI era, following its earlier declaration as an "AI-driven company."
On the 27th, Samsung Electronics held an executive briefing to announce these departmental organizational changes.
Within the Device Solutions (DS) division, which is responsible for the semiconductor business, a new "Memory Development" organization has been established, encompassing all aspects of DRAM and NAND technologies. Hwang Sang-Jun, currently the head of the DRAM Development Lab, has been appointed to be in charge of memory development.
Vice President Hwang is currently leading DRAM development, including High Bandwidth Memory (HBM). By taking on this integrated role, he is expected to consolidate personnel and technologies previously dispersed across product lines like DRAM, NAND, and HBM, focusing on maximizing efficiency in next-generation memory development.
Some analysts interpret this reorganization as a move positioning Vice President Hwang to effectively assume the role of the Head of the Memory Business, a position currently held concurrently by DS division President Jeon Young-hyun.
The HBM Development Team, which was established in July last year, has been reorganized as part of the design team within the DRAM Development Lab after approximately one year. Personnel from the former HBM Development Team will continue to focus on developing next-generation HBM products and technologies, such as HBM4 and HBM4E, under the design team. Son Young-soo, who previously led the HBM Development Team, has been appointed as the new head of the design team.
Furthermore, a 'Digital Twin Center' has been newly established under the DS Division's global manufacturing infrastructure unit.
This move is interpreted as an acceleration of the "Semiconductor AI Factory" strategy, which the company had previously announced its intent to build in collaboration with NVIDIA.
Digital twin technology involves creating virtual representations of real-world objects, systems, and processes in a digital space, enabling real-time monitoring, prediction, and optimization.
Samsung Electronics is pursuing AI-based manufacturing innovation by building an industry-leading "Semiconductor AI Factory" equipped with 50,000 Graphics Processing Units (GPUs) in partnership with NVIDIA.
The company is also developing digital twins to enhance semiconductor manufacturing speed and yield by utilizing various NVIDIA platforms. The ultimate objective is to construct smart factories based on intelligent platforms that autonomously learn and make decisions by collecting all data generated during the semiconductor manufacturing process in real time.
SAIT (Samsung Advanced Institute of Technology), which researches next-generation semiconductor technologies, has focused on organizational flexibility to respond to the rapidly changing AI technology trends.
Through its reorganization announced on the same day, SAIT transitioned from its existing "center" system to a smaller "platform" structure. Recently, Samsung Electronics recruited Professor Park Hong-kun from Harvard University, appointing him as the new President of SAIT, an executive-level position.

3. Prosecutors to Investigate Three Individuals, Including Former Employee, for Attempted SK enpulse Semiconductor Technology Transfer to China

- Former SK enpulse employee attempted to leak Blank Mask Factory Blueprints to China
- Prompt police intervention included travel prohibition and search operations. Referred three to prosecutors
Employees from SK enpulse, a company that successfully localized the core semiconductor technology 'blank mask,' have been apprehended by police for allegedly attempting to leak this technology to China. Blank mask technology is critical for semiconductor manufacturing, a sector which historically has been predominantly dominated by Japanese manufacturers.
According to the related industry sources on the 26th, the Industrial Technology Security Investigation Unit of the Gyeonggi Southern Provincial Police Agency recently referred three individuals, including a former SK enpulse engineer identified only as 'A,' to the Suwon District Prosecutor's Office last month. They face charges under the Industrial Technology Protection Act. SK enpulse is a semiconductor materials subsidiary of SKC.
Mr. A is suspected of attempting to leak the design blueprints of the blank mask factory, which were successfully localized during his employment at SK enpulse last year. Mr. A allegedly conspired with a SK enpulse employee to leak comprehensive data, intending to secure investment in China to build a factory and establish his own company there.
Upon initiating the investigation, the police promptly imposed a travel ban on Mr. A and obtained a search and seizure warrant. Officers executed the warrant at the moment Mr. A was observed leaving his home with the leaked materials, having detected his attempt to depart the country. Due to the police's swift action, an actual leak of the technology was prevented.
During the execution of the warrant, printouts of the factory design for blank mask mass production were discovered in Mr. A's car trunk. A subsequent analysis of Mr. A's laptop and smartphone, secured by the police, revealed evidence of his intent to leak the data to China.
In police questioning, Mr. A claimed that "the materials currently in possession were meant to be discarded, and since they are publicly available, this does not constitute an industrial technology leak."
The blank mask technology Mr. A allegedly attempted to leak is the raw material for photomasks, which are essential for etching semiconductor circuits onto wafers. As a critical component for advanced semiconductor production, the majority of high-end blank masks have historically been supplied by Japanese companies. When Japan imposed export restrictions on semiconductor materials to Korea in 2019, blank masks were among the items subject to these regulations.
SK enpulse began investing in the localization of blank masks in 2020. Within two years, in the latter half of 2022, the company shipped sample products of blank masks designed for memory semiconductors.
SKC plans to absorb and merge with SK enpulse by December. SKC had previously decided in September to sell SK enpulse’s blank mask business to a Chinese company, with finalization process currently underway. SK enpulse, having detected the suspected technology leak, filed a complaint with the police against Mr. A, who has since resigned from the company.


Ⅲ. BATTERY INDUSTRY TREND

1. LG Energy Solution Boosts LFP Battery Production, Accelerating ESS Localization

- Mass production planned at Ochang Energy Plant
- 1 GWh supply targeted from 2027
- Synergies expected for industrial self-reliance and public procurement
LG Energy Solution has officially announced its plan for mass production of LFP (lithium iron phosphate) batteries in South Korea. On the 17th, LG Energy Solution hosted a "Commemorative Event for Domestic Production of ESS (Energy Storage System) LFP Batteries" at its Ochang Energy Plant in Chungcheongbuk-do. During the event, the company discussed strategies to strengthen the domestic energy industry ecosystem and foster technological cooperation. Construction of the production line is set to commence by the end of this year, with an aim to supply 1 GWh of LFP batteries starting from 2027. The company plans to consider phased expansion of production capacity based on market demand.
The Ochang Energy Plant is recognized as LG Energy Solution's “mother factory,” acting as the central hub for all product development and technological innovation. Leveraging this facility, LG Energy Solution intends to build the domestic ESS industry ecosystem by establishing its LFP production line there. The company will transfer its expertise in LFP battery mass production to the Ochang Energy Plant and collaborate with Chungcheongbuk-do Province and domestic materials, parts, and equipment suppliers to jointly develop LFP materials and technologies.
LG Energy Solution currently stands as the sole company outside of China to possess a mass production system for ESS LFP batteries. The company started the production of LFP batteries for ESS at its Michigan plant in the U.S. in June.
According to battery industry, such as market research firm SNE Research, over 90% of the global ESS market is built upon LFP batteries. LFP batteries are garnering significant attention in the ESS market due to their higher cost competitiveness and relatively lower risk of thermal runaway and fire compared to Ternary Battery.
LG Energy Solution's LFP products are reported to have met global safety standards, including thermal runaway fire propagation tests for energy storage systems, with their safety further validated through large-scale fire simulation tests. An LG Energy Solution official stated, "We anticipate this initiative will serve as a stepping stone for the domestic ESS industry to advance, driven by the synergy of three pillars—domestic technology, a domestic supply chain, and participation in the public market."

2. The Dream Battery Arrives: K-Battery Sector Prepares for All-Solid-State Commercialization

- Samsung SDI officially announces Ulsan production, targeting 2027
- SK On and LG Energy Solution aim for mass production by 2029–2030
The domestic battery industry has signaled the commercialization of all-solid-state batteries, frequently known as the “dream battery.” Samsung SDI was the first to announce plans for all-solid-state battery production, centering its efforts in Ulsan. This proactive move is expected to accelerate all-solid-state battery production efforts among other battery manufacturers.
According to industry sources on the 17th, Samsung Group announced the previous day that it is pursuing plans to establish a domestic production base for Samsung SDI's all-solid-state batteries, with the Ulsan plant being considered as a strong candidate.
While Samsung SDI had previously expressed its intention to produce next-generation batteries, including all-solid-state batteries, domestically, this marks the first official mention of a specific region as a domestic production hub.
An industry official commented, "Given that Ulsan is Samsung SDI's largest production base, the likelihood of mass production commencing there is high."
All-solid-state batteries refer to batteries that replace the liquid electrolyte—the material that transports ions between the cathode and anode to facilitate current flow—with a solid electrolyte.
Traditional liquid electrolytes, which utilize organic solvents, pose a risk of battery expansion or ignition due to various environmental factors.
Solid electrolytes, in contrast, significantly reduce these risks, offering enhanced stability. Moreover, they eliminate the need for various safety devices, thereby allowing for increased energy density.
This innovation enables the development of lighter electric vehicles (EVs) equipped with all-solid-state batteries, concurrently extending their driving range.
Consequently, domestic battery manufacturers have intensified their efforts in all-solid-state battery development.
Samsung SDI established its dedicated All Solid Battery (ASB) commercialization task force in 2023 and has been actively preparing since then. The company was the first in the industry to build an all-solid-state battery pilot line in Suwon and is currently producing prototypes.
Recently, Samsung SDI, BMW, and Solid Power signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to jointly develop all-solid-state batteries.
LG Energy Solution has completed prototype all-solid-state battery cells at its Magok R&D campus and is currently constructing a mother line of pilot scale or higher at its Ochang plant.
SK On has completed and commenced full-scale operation of its all-solid-state battery pilot plant within the Daejeon Future Technology Institute.
With Samsung Group's announcement of all-solid-state battery commercialization, other battery manufacturers are expected to accelerate their own commercialization timelines.
Samsung SDI is targeting 2027 for production, while SK On aims for 2029 and LG Energy Solution for 2030.
An industry related official stated, "Domestic battery companies are currently sending samples to numerous global firms for performance evaluation. We anticipate rapid development that will strengthen their position in the global market."

3. Mercedes-Benz Chairman Engages in Consecutive Meetings with Samsung and LG, Signaling Potential Major Deals in AI, Automotive Electronics, and Battery

- Mercedes-Benz Chairman returns to Korea after two years
- Meetings with LG CEOs followed by dinner with Samsung’s Lee Jae-yong
- Strengthened collaboration with LG on ‘AI-Powered mobility’ anticipated
- Market eyes Samsung SDI’s contract potential following Chairman’s “diverse suppliers” remark
Ola Källenius, Chairman of Mercedes-Benz, has visited South Korea for the first time in two years, engaging in a series of high-profile meetings with the leaders of Samsung and LG. This visit is poised to significantly broaden cooperation across critical sectors such as EV batteries, displays, and automotive components. The strategic alliances are anticipated to strengthen AI-centric mobility technology with LG and solidify the next-generation battery supply chain with Samsung.
On the 13th, Chairman Källenius visited LG Twin Tower in Yeouido, Seoul, around 13:30 where he held a meeting with top executives from LG affiliates for approximately 50 minutes. The meeting saw the full participation of key LG Group leaders, including Cho Joo-wan, CEO of LG Electronics; Jeong Chul-dong, CEO of LG Display; Kim Dong-myung, CEO of LG Energy Solution; and Moon Hyuksoo, CEO of LG Innotek.
Following the meeting, Chairman Källenius addressed reporters, stating, "We have a very deep and long-standing partnership with LG in many technology fields that LG offers." He further emphasized, "LG is almost unique in possessing broad and deep technologies," adding, "Innovation and cutting-edge technology are what bind us together."
LG Electronics and Mercedes-Benz have an ongoing collaboration focused on software-defined vehicle (SDV) core solutions, including automotive infotainment and advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS). Notably, LG Energy Solution recently signed a contract with Mercedes-Benz, estimated to be worth 15 trillion won, for the supply of next-generation cylindrical batteries.
This meeting is expected to further intensify existing collaborations, particularly in AI-based automotive electronics and battery-related partnerships. Cho Joo-wan, CEO of LG Electronics, informed reporters after the meeting, "We've extensively discussed software-defined vehicles (SDV), which has been a key future topic. Now, we anticipate the industry will shift towards 'AI-Defined Vehicles,' and our discussions centered on this transformation." He added, "While the EV market is experiencing a temporary slowdown (chasm), we discussed the potential for diverse collaborations once stability returns."
To enhance its mobility solutions, LG Electronics is integrating AI into areas such as 'in-cabin sensing' technology, which detects both the driver and interior vehicle space. As part of this enhancement, the company partnered with U.S. AI semiconductor specialist Ambarella late last year to introduce more advanced in-cabin sensing solutions.
Dinner with Samsung Chairman Lee Jae-yong… Will Samsung SDI Secure a Mercedes-Benz Battery Contract?
After his discussions with LG, Chairman Källenius is scheduled to meet with Samsung Electronics Chairman Lee Jae-yong to discuss potential collaborations with the Samsung Group. Chairman Källenius and Chairman Lee were scheduled to meet at Seungjiwon, Samsung Group's VIP guesthouse in Hannam-dong, Yongsan-gu, Seoul.
The primary focus of discussions between Samsung Electronics and Mercedes-Benz is anticipated to be collaboration on EV batteries. Mercedes-Benz currently partners with other Korean battery manufacturers, including LG Energy Solution and SK On. Following this meeting, there is heightened expectation that Samsung SDI could potentially secure an additional large-scale battery supply agreement with Mercedes-Benz.
Chairman Källenius, when asked by reporters about the possibility of contracts with other Korean companies given the large-scale battery deal with LG Energy Solution, responded, "We aim to build a balanced portfolio with various battery suppliers, and LG Energy Solution is one of them." He added, "If other suppliers, possessing cutting-edge technology, wish to contract with Mercedes-Benz, they too can compete."
Samsung SDI has established a diverse battery portfolio, including prismatic and 46-pi cylindrical batteries, securing various automotive clients. The company is also accelerating the development of next-generation all-solid-state batteries, often referred to as the “dream battery.” If Samsung SDI secure a next-generation battery supply chain with Mercedes-Benz, it would expand its client base to include all three major German premium automakers—Mercedes-Benz, BMW, and Audi.
Expanded collaboration with Harman, Samsung Electronics' automotive electronics subsidiary, is also expected. Harman currently supplies the Digital Cockpit System (MBUX) integrated into Mercedes-Benz's luxury electric EQS model. Samsung Electronics plans to consolidate its automotive electronics capabilities around Harman and leverage the competitiveness of Samsung Display's automotive Organic Light-Emitting Diode (OLED) displays and Samsung Electro-Mechanics' automotive Multi-Layer Ceramic Capacitors (MLCCs) to further expand its leadership in the automotive electronics sector.


Ⅵ. ELECTRIC VEHICLE INDUSTRY TRENDS

1. Hyundai Motor’s Genesis Unveils Its First High-Performance Electric Vehicle, GV60 Magma, Set for Domestic Launch Next Year

Genesis is officially entering the 'Luxury High-Performance' segment with the introduction of the GV60 Magma, the brand's first-ever high-performance electric vehicle.
Genesis unveiled the production model of the GV60 Magma for the first time at the 'Magma World Premiere' event held at the Circuit Paul Ricard in Le Castellet, France. The GV60 Magma was developed based on the concept model showcased last year, incorporating Magma-exclusive design elements and high-performance technologies.
The GV60 Magma features a wider width and lower profile, characterized by an orange exterior, a unique 3-hole bumper, wide fenders, and 275mm wide tires. Aerodynamic elements, such as a rear spoiler and dedicated bumper, are also emphasized. The interior is distinguished by suede-based chamude material and ‘Magma-exclusive 10-way power bucket seats.’
In terms of performance, the GV60 Magma achieves the highest level among Genesis's mass-produced EVs, boasting a combined output of 609 horsepower (650 hp in Boost Mode) from its front and rear motors, a maximum torque of 790 Nm, and a top speed of 264 km/h. Utilizing launch control, it can accelerate from a standstill to 200 km/h in just 10.9 seconds.
The vehicle offers Magma-exclusive Sprint, GT, and My drive modes, and is also equipped with a Boost Mode, Virtual Gear Shift (VGS) system, and a dedicated sound system.
The GV60 Magma is scheduled for sequential global release, starting with its Korean launch in January next year, followed by introductions in Europe and North America. At the event, Genesis also showcased the Magma GT Concept, hinting at its future performance heritage.
Jose Munoz, President of Hyundai Motor Company, stated, "Magma symbolizes Genesis's future vision and its leap into a high-performance brand."

2. BMW Group Korea Conducts EV Firefighting Training for Firefighters

BMW Group Korea announced on the 21st that it has conducted specialized electric vehicle (EV) firefighting training for Incheon firefighters at the BMW Driving Center in Yeongjong Island, Incheon. This initiative aims to strengthen the emergency response capabilities of firefighters to EV-related incidents.
The training program was designed to enable fire services to respond more swiftly and safely to EV fires and rescue situations, aligning with the rapidly increasing adoption rate of EVs.
Thirty frontline firefighters from the Incheon area participated in the training, which combined theoretical instruction with practical exercises. The curriculum focused on the structural characteristics of EVs and the operational principles of their high-voltage systems.
Participants utilized BMW EVs to learn about battery fire detection and notification systems, as well as BMW's specific response manuals for fire incidents. They also practiced power shutdown procedures and various response protocols in simulated accident scenarios, systematically acquiring immediately applicable skills for real-world situations.
Furthermore, performance and driving characteristic tests were conducted on the driving courses within the BMW Driving Center, using BMW's pure electric models. Firefighters experienced EV control systems and driving dynamics in various situations, including braking, steering, and acceleration. They also observed the impact of EV weight distribution and regenerative braking systems on safety, significantly enhancing their understanding of vehicle structure and safety countermeasures.
BMW Group Korea has consistently supported public safety. Last year, the company provided driving safety training to ambulance personnel in the Incheon area to enhance emergency transport safety. This year, it has extended its cooperation by offering complimentary consumable replacements and indefinite extension support for donated vehicles to the Seoul Metropolitan Fire & Disaster Headquarters.

3. South Korea’s Annual EV Registrations Exceed 200,000 for First Time, Demonstrating Market Resilience Amidst “Chasm” Concerns

South Korea's annual EV registrations have surpassed 200,000 units for the first time in history. With over a month remaining until year-end, this figure is already 22.0% higher than the previous annual peak recorded in 2022. Driven by the early implementation of distribution initiatives and the impact of new model launches, cumulative eco-friendly vehicle registrations are projected to exceed 1 million units for the first time ever by early next year.
The Ministry of Climate, Energy, and Environment announced on the 16th that domestic annual EV registrations reached 200,650 units as of the 13th.
Exceeding 200,000 annual units marks the first time, occurring 14 years after the commencement of the EV dissemination program in 2011. Compared to the decade it took to exceed 100,000 annual registrations in 2021, achieving double that figure in just four years demonstrates a sharply ascending growth curve.
Notably, this achievement is particularly significant for having overcome the “chasm” (a temporary slowdown in demand). EV registrations peaked at 164,486 units in 2022, followed by a continuous decline in new EV registrations over the subsequent three years. After a slight decrease to 162,605 units in 2023, registrations fell further to 146,902 units last year, raising concerns about a prolonged “EV chasm.” However, this year's figures indicate a clear and strong reversal, signaling a robust market rebound.
By vehicle type, electric passenger cars accounted for 172,309 units, electric buses for 2,483 units, and electric cargo vehicles for 25,723 units. Domestic market share stands at approximately 55% for passenger EVs, 64% for electric buses, and 93% for electric cargo vehicles. While the domestic share for electric buses saw a dip to 46% in 2023, it has consistently maintained between 63-64% throughout 2024 and 2025.
Meanwhile, hydrogen vehicle registrations have also seen an increase this year compared to the previous two years (2023–2024). Consequently, the cumulative number of eco-friendly vehicles, including EVs and hydrogen cars, has now reached 950,000 units. If this trend continues, the cumulative total is expected to surpass 1 million units by early next year.
Kim Sungwhan, Minister of Climate, Energy, and Environment, stated, "We aim to ensure that the proportion of new EV and hydrogen car registrations reaches over 40% by 2030 and over 70% by 2035." He added, "We will comprehensively strengthen support to boost the overall competitiveness of Korea's automotive industry and drive job creation."


Ⅴ. BIO INDUSTRY TRENDS

1. Celltrion Chairman Seo Jung-jin Unveils Plans for Production Capacity Expansion in Korea and the US, Alongside Obesity Drug Development Initiatives

- Celltrion hints at direct CDMO operations
- Maintaining leadership in biosimilar while advancing new drug development
Celltrion is to expand its manufacturing capacity (CAPA) in both South Korea and the United States to meet increasing global demand for pharmaceuticals. The company plans to maintain its leading position in the biosimilar sector while simultaneously pursuing new drug development, including quadruple-action obesity treatments.
During an online press conference on the morning of the 19th, Celltrion Chairman Seo Jung-jin stated, "We plan to hold an event in early next year in New Jersey, US, to announce the operation of an acquired plant under our name." He added, "The information disclosed today represents subsequent steps to overcome US tariff regulations."
Through an official announcement this day, Celltrion revealed its plan to expand its production base in the US with an investment of up to 700 billion won. The first phase of expansion will add three 11,000-liter bioreactors, followed by a second phase of the same scale, cumulatively adding 66,000 liters of production capacity. Upon completion of these expansions, the total production capacity will increase to 132,000 liters. Preliminary design work for the expansion has commenced, with an estimated investment period of 3 to 5 years.
The company also plans to accelerate the securing of additional new production facilities domestically. In addition to a Drug Product (DP) plant currently under construction at its Songdo campus, Celltrion intends to build new facilities including a Drug Substance (DS) plant in Songdo, Incheon; another DP plant in Yesan, Chungcheongnam-do; and a new Pre-Filled Syringes (PFS) manufacturing plant in Ochang, Chungcheongbuk-do. The regional priorities for these facilities have yet to be determined.
Chairman Seo further explained, "If we only handle our own products, we would only need to expand by 180,000 liters by 2030, but as we have also announced our CDMO (Contract Development and Manufacturing Organization) business, we are considering an expansion of up to 360,000 liters." He continued, "We are constructing a DS plant next to our Plant 1 and are discussing land-related matters with Chungcheongbuk-do for expansion in Yesan." He also mentioned, "We will expand the Ochang PFS plant," adding that "the investment period could vary between 3 to 5 years."
Chairman Seo also opened the possibility of Celltrion becoming the principal entity for CDMO business. The core strategy is for Celltrion BioSolutions, a specialized CDMO company launched late last year, to handle sales and client management, while Celltrion, possessing the necessary infrastructure, would lead the CDMO operations. This decision is viewed as a measure to minimize potential redundant investments, especially as Celltrion pursues a US plant acquisition due to factors like US customs tariffsp.
Aiming for 41 Biosimilars by 2038; New Drug Pipeline Expanded to 20
Celltrion is also expanding its core biosimilar business. The company aims to launch a total of 41 biosimilars by 2038, including its current 11 products. Initially, it plans to introduce seven new biosimilars to the market by 2030. These targeted products include global blockbuster drugs such as Keytruda (melanoma), Cosentyx (psoriasis), Ocrevus (multiple sclerosis), and Darzalex (multiple myeloma).
In parallel with increased capacity, investments in new drugs will also rise. For Antibody-Drug Conjugate (ADC) and multi-antibody new drugs, the product development pipeline is expected to expand to a total of 20 new drug candidates, including over 10 in clinical stages by 2027. This new drug pipeline encompasses candidate substances targeting FcRn (neonatal Fc receptor) proteins, as well as triple-antibody platforms, ADC platforms, and spatial transcriptomics platforms.
The company is also developing obesity treatments, a sector achieving significant global attention. Chairman Seo's plan is to develop obesity treatments that go beyond the current market-dominant dual- to triple-action agents, including GLP-1 (Glucagon-like peptide-1), to quadruple-action agents. The quadruple-action obesity treatment, CT-G32, currently under development, is expected to offer improved therapeutic effects based on individual variation and reduced side effects such as muscle loss.
Chairman Seo emphasized, "For the quadruple-action obesity treatment, we will complete related patent registration and animal studies by the end of this year." He continued, "Next year, we will proceed with preclinical studies for regulatory approval." He added, "This (obesity treatment) segment will also be at the cutting edge, comparable to any other company."

2. Cha Biotech Group Acquires Kakao Healthcare

- Secures 43% stake through subsidiaries
- Strategic partnership solidified through mutual equity change
Cha Biotech Group is set to acquire management rights of Kakao Healthcare for 80 billion won. In addition, the group has formed a 'digital healthcare alliance' with Kakao Group through a mutual equity exchange. The strategy for both parties is to leverage the synergy between Cha Biotech Group's global medical network and Kakao Healthcare's AI healthcare technology.
Cha Biotech Group and Kakao Group announced on the 19th their intention to strengthen strategic cooperation in the global digital healthcare sector through a mutual equity exchange. Firstly, Cha Cares, a medical infrastructure management subsidiary of Cha Biotech, and Cha AI Healthcare (formerly Jayjun Cosmetic), a cosmetics manufacturing subsidiary of Cha Cares, will acquire a stake in Kakao Healthcare for 70 billion won. Cha AI Healthcare will also invest an additional 10 billion won in a paid-in capital increase for Kakao Healthcare. Of the 70 billion won secured from the sale of existing Kakao Healthcare shares, Kakao Group plans to reinvest 40 billion won into Kakao Healthcare's capital increase and use the remaining 30 billion won to acquire a stake in Cha Biotech.
Kakao Healthcare is subsequently planning to attract 50 billion won from external investors. Kakao Group stated, "Upon the completion of this equity sale and investment attraction, Kakao Healthcare will have secured approximately 100 billion won in new investments." This total comprises 50 billion won from external investors, 40 billion won from Kakao Group's capital increase, and 10 billion won from Cha AI Healthcare's capital increase.
Following this investment, Cha Cares and Cha AI Healthcare will become the largest shareholders of Kakao Healthcare. Kakao Healthcare's ownership structure, previously 100% held by Kakao, will be restructured as follows: Cha Cares and Cha AI Healthcare holding 43%, Kakao 30%, and other external investors, including IMM Investment, holding 27%.
Kakao Healthcare plans to further enhance the competitiveness of its existing services, such as the mobile blood glucose management solution 'PASTA (Personalized, Accessible, Supportive, Tech-enabled, Affordable),' its medical data business, and the hospital concierge service 'Care Chat.' In particular, it will accelerate business expansion and global market penetration by leveraging its connection with Cha Biotech Group, which operates 77 medical service platforms across six countries (USA, Australia, Singapore, Japan, Indonesia, and Vietnam), establishing itself as the largest medical network in the Asia-Pacific region. Cha Biotech Group aims to secure a unique position as a 'Smart Healthcare Group' through advanced digital healthcare technologies.

3. Samsung Biologics Achieves 400 Regulatory Manufacturing Approvals

Samsung Biologics announced on the 26th that it has secured 400 manufacturing approvals from global regulatory authorities.
As of November, Samsung Biologics has obtained a total of 400 manufacturing approvals from numerous regulatory bodies worldwide, including 49 from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and 46 from the European Medicines Agency (EMA).
The company explains that this achievement—an additional 100 approvals within a year since reaching 300 in October last year—signifies a rapid accumulation of manufacturing approval track records driven by production capacity expansion and an increase in manufactured products. Furthermore, Samsung Biologics maintains an industry-leading inspection pass rate from regulatory authorities.
Manufacturing approval from regulatory agencies is a critical part of the drug authorization process, affirming that all aspects of a drug's manufacturing and quality control adhere to the Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) standards of each respective country. This procedure is mandatory for pharmaceuticals produced by Contract Development and Manufacturing Organization (CDMO) companies to be supplied to a given market. It is considered a key indicator of a CDMO's quality and operational capabilities, as it typically requires dozens of specialized personnel and months of rigorous verification per product.
Samsung Biologics attributes its consistent success in securing manufacturing approvals, even from stringent global regulatory bodies like those in the U.S. and Europe, to three core factors: cultivation of expert personnel, a digital-based quality management system, and standardized regulatory response protocols.
Since its establishment in 2011, Samsung Biologics has invested in systematic talent development by operating a dedicated "audit expert team." Through continuous efforts in analyzing the latest regulatory guidelines, providing audit response training, and preparing for client audits, the company has expanded its personnel capable of handling manufacturing approvals from approximately 70 in 2015 to around 500 today.
Moreover, the company has implemented a digital-based GMP data management system to integrate and manage production and quality data through electronic document and electronic quality systems. By digitizing the vast amounts of data generated during biopharmaceutical production in accordance with GMP regulations and tracking/storing it in real-time, Samsung Biologics ensures immediate and accurate responses to data verification requests from regulatory agencies and clients.
In addition, based on its extensive experience with diverse global regulatory inspections, Samsung Biologics has standardized its entire process, from audit preparation and on-site response to post-audit corrective and preventive actions. This standardization enables the company to maintain consistent quality standards and response systems, even when product or process characteristics vary, thereby continuously reinforcing trust with regulatory bodies.
John Rim, CEO of Samsung Biologics, stated, "Achieving 400 global regulatory manufacturing approvals once again demonstrates our digital-based quality competitiveness and standardized operational capabilities." He added, "We will continue to strengthen our quality management, technological innovation, and regulatory response capabilities to become the most trusted partner for global pharmaceutical companies."
　

Prev　
The Ministry of Intellectual Property (MOIP) newly established a bureau dedicated to respond to disputes for a national level rapid response to intellectual property (IP) disputes.(News Letter No. 565)

Next　
Korean Industrial Insight No.21 of AI, Semiconductors, Batteries, Electric vehicles, and Bio in chinese