Back in 2023, Samsung and ASML signed a $755 million deal to build a semiconductor research plant in South Korea. Now it looks like there’s a change in plan, though their partnership is still on track. The two companies were supposed to build the R&D center in Hwaseong, but they have decided not to proceed with that location. They are now looking for a new location where they can collaborate more effectively.
New plans for Samsung-ASML semiconductor R&D facility
ASML is the only company that specializes in EUV exposure equipment, which is critical for creating very tiny semiconductor circuits smaller than 10nm. Due to this, ASML and Samsung are working together to develop high-performance semiconductors. The Korean firm uses EUV to make semiconductors.
As per a report from ETNews, ASML was planning to build a joint R&D facility with Samsung in Hwaseong. However, the company has now cancelled the plan and is looking for alternative locations for the project. As a part of their previous plan, ASML purchased a site in Block 74 of Dongtan 2 New Town, Hwaseong, Gyeonggi Province. But now, the latest report suggests that the company has sold this site.
In June 2024, ASML also signed a deal to purchase 6 lots of land with the Korea Land and Housing Corporation. Now it looks like ASML seemingly doesn’t have any plans to build an R&D facility with Samsung on those 6 lots of land. It has already sold 2 lots of land. The company is in the process of selling two more lots, and may also sell the remaining two after that.
Previously, Frank Heimskerk, ASML’s Vice President of External Affairs, said, “Samsung Electronics is an important customer, and the establishment of the R&D facility will serve as an opportunity to strengthen the technological alliance between the two companies and expand cooperation with domestic and Hwaseong-si semiconductor companies.”
As of now, it’s unclear why ASML has sold the originally intended site. But ASML and Samsung are currently exploring locations other than Hwaseong. “A plan to build an R&D center inside a Samsung Electronics business site is also being discussed,” an industry insider told the publication.
