Kim Seong-hwan, the Minister of Climate Energy and Environment, visited the Yongin semiconductor cluster to assess the status of key infrastructure development, including electricity and water supply, and to support the semiconductor mega-project.
The ministry announced that Minister Kim visited the Samsung Electronics national industrial complex and the SK Hynix general industrial complex in Yongin's Cheoin District on July 22 to review the plans for power and water supply and the progress of construction.
This site visit follows the government's announcement last month of the 'Three Mega-Projects for South Korea's Great Leap Forward.' The government and companies aim to double memory production capacity within five years, ahead of the original timeline for completing semiconductor production facilities.
The semiconductor industry is recognized for its significant reliance on stable infrastructure, such as substantial electricity and ultra-pure water, which are critical for maintaining production competitiveness. Industry experts warn that delays in power and water supply could postpone the entire investment schedule, making timely infrastructure development essential for semiconductor competitiveness.
In response, the government plans to expedite the schedules for electricity and water supply.
In the electricity sector, the Yongin semiconductor cluster is expected to require over 10 GW of power. The government will gradually expand the supply chain to meet this demand. The national industrial complex will provide initial power through LNG generation and nearby transmission network enhancements by 2030, with plans to advance the final power supply date from 2053 to 2042 by expanding transmission lines and connecting power from the Yeongdong and Central regions.
Power supply to the SK Hynix general industrial complex is set to begin in 2027, with a combined heat and power plant to be established by 2029 to meet initial demand. The plan also includes early expansion of transmission lines and the simultaneous development of power networks and roads to enhance community acceptance.
Water supply efforts are also being accelerated. The government plans to supply up to 1.5 million tons of water daily to the national and general industrial complexes using the Soyanggang Dam, Chungju Dam, Hwacheon Dam, and recycled wastewater. Notably, the first phase of the integrated water supply project will be advanced from 2031 to May 2029, with construction on some sections starting in July this year. The second phase is set to begin design work in the second half of this year, with water supply expected to start in 2034.
Minister Kim stated, "As semiconductors are an irreplaceable national strategic industry, it is crucial not to miss the golden time for investment. The government will focus all its efforts on ensuring timely supply of essential infrastructure, including electricity and water, to the Yongin semiconductor complex."
* This article has been translated by AI.
Copyright ⓒ Aju Press All rights reserved.