In a bold move to strengthen South Korea’s position in the global auto chip race, Hyundai Mobis has launched a private-sector alliance that includes over 20 companies and research institutes. The initiative, dubbed the Auto Semicon Korea (ASK) forum, was held on September 29 in Pangyo, bringing together 23 entities such as Samsung Electronics, LX Semicon, SK keyfoundry, DB HiTek, and KERI (Korea Electrotechnology Research Institute).
The goal? To localize automotive semiconductor development and build a self-sufficient domestic supply chain. Until now, Korean automakers and parts suppliers have depended heavily on chips from Europe, North America, and Japan. Under the new alliance, Hyundai Mobis will lead collaboration on design, development, and validation, while encouraging companies from adjacent sectors (like mobile or home appliances) to enter the automotive chip field.
Hyundai Mobis already produces 16 types of in-house designed semiconductors (e.g., power, communication, sensors) via external foundries, with a volume reaching 20 million units this year. Through joint development, the company expects to reduce development time by up to two years by integrating power semiconductors and core components. Notably, partners like GlobalFoundries and Dongwoon Anatech are already gearing up for mass production of next-generation components like power drive semiconductors and advanced lighting systems.
The automotive semiconductor market is expanding fast—projected to grow at more than 9 % annually and hit around USD 135–138 billion by 2030. Hyundai Mobis aims to establish ASK as an annual forum, gradually bringing in startups, design houses, and industry bodies to strengthen Korea’s auto chip capability from within.
