President Lee announced a government plan to establish a semiconductor hub in the Honam region of South Korea today.
The initiative aims to reduce regional economic disparity while strengthening the nation's global standing in the chip industry. By shifting industrial focus toward Gwangju, the government seeks to leverage local resources to secure a more resilient supply chain.
Three national-level mega projects were announced [1] as part of the broader strategy. The president said the move was the start of a "new history" for the country. During the proceedings, President Lee said Samsung Electronics Chairman Lee Jae-yong and SK Group Chairman Choi Tae-won were "national heroes."
President Lee said the Honam area was selected because it possesses abundant water and renewable-energy resources. He said the region has been historically neglected in previous industrial developments. The project is intended to spur regional growth and create high-tech employment opportunities in Gwangju [1].
The announcement included high-level participation from the private sector. Chairman Lee Jae-yong and Chairman Choi Tae-won were both present for the unveiling of the projects. According to reports, Lee Jae-yong said Gwangju has potential as a site for semiconductor expansion [1].
Lawmakers from both sides of the aisle were present at the event. The group included Rep. Jeon Yong-gi (D) and Rep. Kim Hee-jung (PPP), signaling a cross-party interest in the industrialization of the Honam region. The government expects the partnership between the state and the two largest conglomerates to accelerate the construction of the hub.
“President Lee called the project the start of a "new history."”
This strategic shift toward Gwangju represents an attempt to balance South Korea's economic geography, which has traditionally been centered around the Seoul metropolitan area. By aligning the interests of the state with the resources of Samsung and SK, the government is attempting to create a diversified industrial base that is less vulnerable to regional disruptions and more integrated with renewable energy sources.
