Kim Yong-beom on 'Second Semiconductor Cluster' in Honam and Chungcheong: "Discussions in Final Stages… Yongin Project Remains Unchanged"

Kim Yong-beom, Chief of Staff for Policy at the Presidential Office, stated regarding the ongoing review of establishing a "second semiconductor cluster" in the Honam and Chungcheong regions, "We are approaching the final stages of discussions. Once finalized, we plan to arrange an opportunity for companies and relevant ministries to explain the details to the public all at once."

During a debate invited by the Kwanhun Club today (June 24), Chief Kim noted that with the explosive growth in semiconductor demand, the construction of planned facilities must be accelerated. He remarked, "Even if we wanted to build more facilities in the capital region, there is no land, power, or water available. However, that does not mean we should go overseas."

He emphasized the necessity of creating clusters in regions such as Honam and Chungcheong.

At the same time, Chief Kim stressed, "This is absolutely not about relocating the project planned for Yongin to the provinces without building it there. We are creating a new cluster."

His point is that the Yongin cluster currently under construction is not being relocated; rather, an additional second cluster is being built. The project is being initiated now because waiting to find a new site only after the completion of the Yongin cluster could be too late.

Chief Kim also predicted that the "semiconductor super-cycle" would have a significant ripple effect, stating, "We compiled a 25 trillion won supplementary budget during the Middle East war this year, and it appears that surplus tax revenue exceeding that amount will come in within this year."

"I have a fear that we might not be able to fully support this demand with our power supply. The monster that is electricity demand could consume us," Chief Kim said, repeatedly emphasizing that there must be no gaps in preparations for power infrastructure and other related needs.

(Photo: Yonhap News)
※ Please note: This article was translated by AI and may contain errors.