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

Kim Yong-bum, 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 hosted by the Kwanhun Club on June 24, Kim noted that the explosive growth in semiconductor demand requires accelerating the construction of planned facilities. He remarked, "Even if we wanted to build more facilities in the capital region, there is no land, electricity, or water available. But that does not mean we have to go overseas, does it?"

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

At the same time, Kim stressed, "This does not mean we are abandoning the plans to build in Yongin and relocating to the provinces. We are creating a new cluster."

His point is that the Yongin cluster currently under construction is not being relocated; rather, a new second cluster is being added. He explained that 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.

Kim also predicted that the 'semiconductor supercycle' would have a significant ripple effect, stating, "We organized a 25 trillion won supplementary budget during the Middle East war this year, and it appears that an even larger amount of excess tax revenue will come in within this year."

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

(Photo: Yonhap News)
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