SK keyfoundry to Accelerate SiC-Based Power Semiconductor Development in First Half of Next Year

Securing Core Technological Capabilities Through SK Powertech Acquisition
Aiming to Offer Process Technology by End of 2025

SK keyfoundry announced on November 12 that it has established a new organization dedicated to providing customer-tailored silicon carbide (SiC)-based solutions and plans to launch its SiC-based compound power semiconductor foundry (semiconductor contract manufacturing) business in the first half of next year, leveraging synergies with SK Powertech.

SK keyfoundry logo. SK keyfoundry

Based on the acquisition of SK Powertech and the new solutions organization, SK keyfoundry will offer SiC MOSFET 1200V process technology by the end of this year and intends to enter the SiC-based power semiconductor foundry business within the first half of next year.

SK Powertech is a company specializing in the design and manufacturing of SiC-based power semiconductors. It is particularly recognized for having secured commercialization and core process technologies for SiC power devices. SK Inc. acquired the company in 2022. Earlier this year, SK keyfoundry acquired a 98.59% stake in SK Powertech from SK Inc. for 25 billion won.

Power semiconductors are essential components that control the direction of current and manage power conversion in electronic devices requiring electricity, such as electric vehicles, hydrogen vehicles, and 5G communication networks. SK keyfoundry has made this a central pillar of its growth strategy. SiC power semiconductors are attracting attention as next-generation semiconductors due to their durability, stability, and versatility, maintaining power conversion efficiency of over 98% even in extreme environments of high temperature and high voltage.

According to market research firm Omdia, the global SiC market is expected to grow at an average annual rate of over 24% from this year through 2030.

Lee Dongjae, CEO of SK keyfoundry, stated, "The acquisition of SK Powertech, a SiC specialist, marks a significant turning point for SK keyfoundry in securing independent technological competitiveness in the field of compound semiconductors. By combining the core development capabilities of both companies, we will establish differentiated technological leadership through the launch of high-efficiency SiC power semiconductor process technology and products."