Yongin Mayor Lee Sang-il stated today (June 24) that he has received confirmation that "there will be absolutely no relocation of any of Samsung Electronics' semiconductor production lines (fabs) currently being pursued within the Advanced System Semiconductor National Industrial Complex in Idong and Namsa-eup to other regions," in response to reports regarding potential large-scale semiconductor investments by Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix in regions such as Honam and Chungcheong.

He added, "Samsung Electronics has made it clear that it will build six fabs in the national industrial complex as planned," noting, "I confirmed this fact by contacting a top-level official in the decision-making line of Samsung Electronics' semiconductor division."

Mayor Lee's remarks follow recent media reports suggesting that Samsung Electronics might consider relocating some of its semiconductor fabs from the Yongin National Industrial Complex as part of its investment plans in non-capital regions. These reports had sparked concerns among residents of Yongin, as well as those in southern Gyeonggi areas such as Pyeongtaek and Hwaseong.

After stating that "investment decisions are made by companies," Mayor Lee said, "Samsung Electronics is well aware that I and the citizens of Yongin have strongly responded to attempts by those in power to shake the project, such as suggestions to relocate some of the Samsung fabs in the Yongin National Industrial Complex to the Honam region, and that nothing will happen to disappoint the citizens."

He continued, "There is no reason to oppose Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix making new investments in other regions," and emphasized, "Since both companies have decided to make massive investments in non-capital regions, we must also ensure that the construction of Samsung Electronics' Yongin Advanced System Semiconductor National Industrial Complex and the SK Hynix Yongin Semiconductor Cluster Industrial Complex proceeds with speed."

(Photo courtesy of Yongin City, Yonhap News)