Ecpro founder Lee Dong-chae inspected development sites for future materials, including all-solid-state batteries. Ecpro said on Jan. 18 that Lee visited the Ecopro BM research building in Cheongju, North Chungcheong Province, on Jan. 7 to check the status of future materials development. Lee said, "Let us steadily prepare for the future that will come after the crisis." He added, "Please concentrate research capabilities on materials development to prepare for the era of all-solid-state batteries, the game-changer for batteries."

The Ecopro BM research building is where Ecpro was first established in Cheongju and is conducting R&D on eco-friendly materials and catalysts, including adsorbents. Lee said, "From here, we planted the seeds of our Ecpro and leapt into a global eco-friendly company." He urged, "We must challenge and challenge again so that the cathode material for all-solid-state batteries that we develop can lead Ecpro's second leap."

At this year's opening ceremony, Lee presented four management guidelines: strengthening technology leadership, advancing overseas business sites, diversifying customers and strengthening profit-and-loss management. Lee said, "For Ecpro, which grew through technology, the way to break through the current crisis lies in strengthening differentiated R&D capabilities." He stressed, "Without technological strength, there is no future."

Lee also visited the Ecopro HN Chopyeong site in Jincheon, North Chungcheong Province, on Jan. 5. The Chopyeong site manufactures secondary battery materials and semiconductor materials, including crucibles and dopants. The site covers about 50,000 square metres. Crucibles are essential containers used in the firing process for battery cathode materials. Domestic secondary battery materials companies currently rely on imports for crucibles, drawing attention to the Chopyeong site.

Lee said, "Through innovation, we must secure manufacturing competitiveness that can surpass competitors." He urged, "Please make a special effort to create a safe workplace."