Two Samsung SDI researchers received government citations for contributions to the development of the battery industry. Samsung SDI said on Oct. 29 that it won a prime minister's citation and an industry minister's citation, respectively, to mark the sixth Battery Industry Day.

Battery Industry Day falls on Nov. 1 and was established in 2021 to commemorate achievements in South Korea's battery industry and promote its development.

The prime minister's citation went to Kim Young-gi (김영기), a professional at the research institute. Kim was recognised for focusing on cathode materials research and development for more than 10 years and boosting the competitiveness of South Korea's battery materials technology. He brought in-house production of lithium cobalt oxide (LCO) materials used in prismatic batteries and also developed lithium iron phosphate (LFP) materials for energy storage systems (ESS).

The industry minister's citation went to Yoo Hee-eun (유희은), a group leader in the mid-to-large-size business division. Yoo led the development of a high-safety battery that lowers the risk of ignition even when physical damage is applied. Yoo also led the development of battery electrodes that raised energy density to the industry's top level, and was assessed to have contributed to securing next-generation technology competitiveness.

The electrodes whose development Yoo led were applied to a high-energy prismatic battery. The battery won an InterBattery 2026 Award earlier this year.

A Samsung SDI official said, "It is highly meaningful that the achievements of employees who have continuously worked for technological innovation at sites developing next-generation battery materials and products have been recognised." The official added, "We will continue to contribute to the development of South Korea's battery industry and the strengthening of global competitiveness based on differentiated technological competitiveness."