South Korea and the Netherlands Forge Semiconductor Alliance for Future Industry Leadership

South Korea and the Netherlands Strengthen Semiconductor Cooperation for Future Industry Leadership

South Korean President Visits the Netherlands to Enhance Semiconductor Collaboration

In a significant move to bolster their semiconductor industries, South Korea and the Netherlands are intensifying their cooperation. South Korean President, Yoon Seok-yeol, will embark on a state visit from the 11th to the 15th of this month. This visit marks the first-ever state visit by a South Korean president to the Netherlands since diplomatic relations were established in 1961. The primary focus of the visit will be on enhancing cooperation in various fields, including semiconductors, defense industries, nuclear energy, and advanced science and technology.

Highlight of the Visit: Yoon Seok-yeol’s Visit to ASML

The highlight of President Yoon Seok-yeol’s visit will be his visit to ASML, a world-leading semiconductor lithography equipment manufacturer. ASML is renowned for its cutting-edge extreme ultraviolet (EUV) technology used in semiconductor production. President Yoon plans to attract investment in South Korea through “sales diplomacy” during his visit to ASML’s headquarters in Veldhoven. Notably, top business leaders such as Lee Jae-yong, Vice Chairman of Samsung Electronics, and Chey Tae-won, Chairman of SK Group, will accompany President Yoon on this visit.

ASML: A Global Semiconductor Superstar

ASML holds a prominent position in the semiconductor industry as the world’s leading producer of EUV lithography equipment. Its unique capabilities have attracted the attention of South Korean semiconductor manufacturers and material-equipment companies. ASML is the sole producer of EUV lithography equipment worldwide, making President Yoon’s visit all the more significant.

Continued Efforts to Strengthen Semiconductor Cooperation

President Yoon has been actively pursuing closer ties with ASML, having previously met with Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte during the NATO summit in July. During these meetings, President Yoon repeatedly requested investment in ASML’s Korean factory.

Exploring Advanced Technologies and Collaboration

During his visit, President Yoon will tour ASML’s production site and witness the production process of the latest lithography equipment, guided by ASML CEO Peter Wennink. Discussions will also focus on fostering collaboration in training professionals and conducting research and development of next-generation technologies. President Yoon will have the unique opportunity to visit ASML’s cleanroom, becoming the first foreign head of state to witness semiconductor production in such a setting.

Expected Outcomes and Deepening Strategic Partnership

President Yoon’s state visit is expected to strengthen the strategic partnership between South Korea and the Netherlands. The two countries aim to maximize the complementarity between the Netherlands’ advanced equipment and South Korea’s advanced manufacturing capabilities in the semiconductor value chain. To achieve this, they will establish “semiconductor dialogue” and explore joint business opportunities, thus maximizing the potential of the semiconductor industry and contributing to global technological development.

Expanding Cooperation Beyond Semiconductors

Besides semiconductors, the visit will also explore cooperation in other fields such as carbon-free energy, quantum mechanics, artificial intelligence (AI), and smart agriculture. Furthermore, logistics cooperation will be expanded, taking advantage of the Netherlands’ expertise in handling a significant portion of Europe’s water traffic. Discussions are also underway to expand the working holiday program between South Korea and the Netherlands, allowing more young people to participate.

Conclusion: Strengthening Strategic Cooperation

President Yoon Seok-yeol’s visit to the Netherlands holds great promise for strengthening strategic cooperation between the two countries, particularly in the semiconductor industry. This visit will not only enhance economic ties but also pave the way for collaboration in defense, energy, advanced technology, and cultural exchange. By establishing “semiconductor dialogue” and exploring joint business opportunities, South Korea and the Netherlands aim to maximize the potential of the semiconductor value chain and contribute to global technological advancements.