On Tuesday, South Korea’s Ministry of Industry announced the launch of the country’s first domestic production of nanotech filters, marking a step toward self-sufficiency in a key component needed for semiconductor manufacturing.
The production of nanotechnology-based filters began at Synopex’s factory in Dongtan, located 40 kilometers south of Seoul, with enough capacity to meet the entire domestic demand, according to the Ministry of Trade, Industry, and Energy.
Previously, South Korea had relied entirely on imports for this material, with annual demand estimated at 8,000 units or 100 billion won ($69.5 million). 
To accelerate research supporting the materials, parts, and equipment industries, as well as stabilize supply chains, the government allocated 12.3 billion won for the project.
Nanotech Filters by Synopex
The filters produced by Synopex will be used in semiconductor production by Samsung Electronics and SK hynix, the ministry added.
“The government will continue to invest in R&D projects for cutting-edge industries to secure stable supply chains,” said Lee Seung-ryeol, Deputy Minister for Industry Policy.
