The Korea Small and Medium Enterprises and Startups Agency (KOSME) announced that Chairman Kang Seok-jin held a field meeting on July 28 at the manufacturing company DK in Changwon, Gyeongnam.
The meeting aimed to address the challenges faced by small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the power and cooling infrastructure sector, which is becoming increasingly important due to the expansion of artificial intelligence (AI) and data centers. The discussion focused on practical support measures for these companies.
Attendees included DK CEO Shim Jae-beom and Dongsan Tech CEO Shim Hyun-seok, representing 11 power equipment and component manufacturing companies in the Gyeongnam region. They expressed concerns about the financial burden of expanding production facilities and securing raw materials, despite opportunities for increased business contracts. They also requested support for testing and certification to meet the quality and delivery standards of demand companies.
KOSME stated that it would review the issues raised during the meeting through its relevant departments and the Gyeongnam regional headquarters and eastern branch, and would pursue follow-up actions in cooperation with related agencies if necessary.
Representatives from Hyosung Heavy Industries, Korea Electric Power Corporation Gyeongnam Headquarters, and the Korea Electric Research Institute also attended the meeting to explore collaboration opportunities among companies.
After the meeting, Chairman Kang toured DK's production site to observe the manufacturing processes and quality control status, continuing his communication with on-site personnel.
Kang Seok-jin stated, "To connect the expansion of AI and data centers with the growth and contract opportunities for manufacturing companies, systematic support for funding, personnel, quality, and market access is essential. I will actively reflect the voices of businesses heard on-site into our policies and support programs."
He emphasized, "We will support the growth of individual companies in collaboration with related firms and institutions such as Hyosung Heavy Industries and KEPCO, ensuring that this growth strengthens the regional supply chain and the competitiveness of the power industry ecosystem."
* This article has been translated by AI.
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