Competition over glass substrates, a next-generation semiconductor packaging material, is shifting from individual company technology validation to a race to build supply chains led by materials alliances. Samsung Electro-Mechanics has moved to set up a 480 billion won joint venture with a Sumitomo Chemical group affiliate. The move sharpens its rivalry with SKC, whose unit Absolics has completed construction of a glass substrate mass-production line in Georgia.

SKC is stepping up its push for artificial intelligence transformation. The company said it has launched a dedicated AX organization and will build a companywide system to use AI. SKC set up an AI Frontier task force under the CEO, with participation from SKC and investee affiliates including SK Nexilis, SK PIC Global, ISC, Absolics and SK REVO. The task force will develop projects, work with external experts, and set AI guidelines. SKC will also review generative AI tools and expand training.