South Korea is making a significant move into the global silicon carbide (SiC) semiconductor industry with the launch of its first 8-inch SiC power semiconductor plant in Busan. Known for superior heat resistance, high voltage handling, and energy efficiency compared to traditional silicon, SiC technology has been largely led by industry giants like Infineon and Wolfspeed. Now, South Korea is stepping onto the world stage with EYEQ Lab at the forefront.
On September 17, the Busan Metropolitan Government announced that EYEQ Lab has completed its new headquarters and advanced manufacturing facility in Gijang, backed by a 100 billion won investment. This marks a major milestone for the country, which previously depended on imports for over 90% of its power semiconductor needs.
The new facility is not only set to produce EYEQ Lab’s own SiC semiconductors but will also offer foundry services to other companies. After a pilot phase this year, full-scale production is expected to begin in 2026, with an annual output target of 30,000 wafers.
Founded in 2018, EYEQ Lab has steadily grown its semiconductor footprint. It signed a foundry EDA agreement with Samsung in 2019 and expanded internationally by signing an MoU in 2023 to build a fabrication plant in Wuxi, China.
In parallel, Samsung is ramping up R&D on 8-inch SiC power semiconductors. According to ZDNet, a senior executive confirmed the company is aiming to commercialize its own SiC solutions “as soon as possible,” signaling broader national momentum in this fast-growing field.
