South Korea\'s semiconductor materials, parts and equipment sector is drawing attention after the government, Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix unveiled an 800 trillion won investment plan for a second semiconductor cluster in the southwest. The government is pushing three mega projects centered on semiconductors, physical AI and AI data centers. It expects early benefits for infrastructure and process equipment orders and aims to link production in the southwest with supplier bases in the southeast and Daegyeong regions.

Samsung Group has expanded its support system for partner companies across its supply chain. Eleven affiliates including Samsung Electronics signed an agreement on June 29 at Samsung Electronics\' Suwon campus with first- to third-tier partner companies to build a shared-growth ecosystem. About 6,700 partner companies in Samsung\'s supply chain are expected to benefit. The deal covers funding, technology and staffing, and includes support for second- and third-tier suppliers and an industrial accident fund plan.