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Sharing Various Stories about Haesung DS

HAESUNG DS Participated in NH THE C FORUM

Events

HAESUNG DS Participated in NH THE C FORUM

On May 22nd, HAESUNG DS participated in the “NH THE C FORUM” at the invitation of NH Investment & Securities.    Hosted by NH Investment & Securities, the event was organized to invite C-level executives fr|om companies with strong growth potential and provide institutional investors with opportunities to share long-term visions, discuss industry outlooks and strengthen the networking.  The forum was held over two days fr|om May 21st to 22nd, 2026, bringing together HAESUNG DS and various promising companies for meaningful discussions and exchanges.    Five representatives fr|om HAESUNG DS attend on the event on May 22nd, including the CEO, CFO, Head of Business Planning Team.  During the sessions, the company shared insights on recent market trends and future business outlooks.  It was also a valuable opportunity to directly communicate with institutional investors who have shown interest in the company, explaining HASUNG DS’s vision and strategy while exchanging diverse perspective and opinions.    The meeting began with a 15-minute presentation covering company introduction, current management status, business strategies by segment, and shareholder return policies, followed by a Q&A session.  The management team personally addressed a wide range of investor questions, helping resolve market concerns and enabling discussions regarding the company’s strategic direction and future plans.    As C-level executives attended the forum directly, discussions extended beyond short-term earnings and focused more deeply on long-term growth potential and broader industry trends.  Through these interactions, HAESUNG DS was able to better understand market perspective and investor sentiment regarding the current business environment, while also reaffirming its future strategic direction.    The key Q&A topics discussed during the event are as follows.   1. How long will the strong demand trend since early 2026 expected to continue?  Since the beginning of the year, the lead frame business has maintained high utilization rates due to the consistent strong demand fr|om OSAT customers. This strong demand is believed to be driven by favorable end market conditions, including increasing demand for power semiconductor, along with geological risks such as the global conflict and tariff-related issues.  Considering the current order backlog through June, strong demand for lead frames is expected to continue through the first half of the year. The demand is also anticipated to remain strong in the second half of the year, supported by increased safety stock by major customers.    2. How is the company responding to margin pressure caused by rising raw material prices? Recent increases in LME prices have impacted the company’s profitability, and operating margins in the first quarter of 2026 came in below market expectations. However, HAESUNG DS operates an “LME-linked pricing system” in the lead frame business, where changes in LME prices are reflected in price after a certain time lag. This helps mitigate part of the burden caused by rising raw material costs. In addition, the company plans to further expand the range of LME price reflection this year to minimize cost pressures beyond the existing pricing mechanism.    3. What are the expected affects of package substrate price changes? Structurally, the package substrate industry has limited room for price increases. However, sharp rises in LME prices fr|om last year through early this year significantly increased supplier burdens. As a result, major customer agreed to unusual price increases, considering the improving memory semiconductor market conditions.  These price increases have been reflected since the second quarter of 2026, and the company expects improvements in both earnings and profitability on a QoQ basis. If current sales levels are maintained and new product approvals in the second half proceed as we planned, the package substrate business is also expected to achieve profitability improvements.      4. Competitors are improving margins through high value-added products. What is HAESUNG DS’s strategy for the package substrate business? Unlike others, HAESUNG DS applies a “Reel to Reel” production method in its package substrate manufacturing process. Compared to conventional panel-based processes, the Reel-to-Reel method offers higher productivity and improved price competitiveness.  Competitors are currently facing capacity constraints while responding to growing demand for high value-added products, leading them to focus more on high-end products with higher ASPs. As a result, HAESUNG DS has been rapidly expanding its market share in the commodity DRAM market by leveraging its superior productivity.    5. What is the outlook for performance after the first quarter of 2026? Strong demand for lead frames that began earlier this year, along with increasing demand for commodity DRAM since the second half of 2025, continues to remain solid. If LME prices remain stabilized, profitability in the lead frame business is expected to improve compared to the first quarter of 2026. In the package substrate business as well, mass production of new DDR5 products is accelerating fr|om the second quarter, while price increase effects for major customers and higher shipment volumes in the second half are expected to contribute to improved performance.  However, external variables such as LME prices and exchange rates, as well as fluctuation of DDR4 demand, will continue to be closely monitored.    6. Are there any additional capacity expansion plans for each business segment this year? Following the completion of the new plant expansion in 2025, no additional investment for lead frame capacity expansion has been finalized yet. However, we will respond promptly if further capacity expansion becomes necessary after continuous reviewing on market conditions and customer demand trends. Therefore, we regularly conduct weekly meetings with customers to closely monitor the market changes.  For the package substrate business, current utilization rates remine around 60~70%, leaving sufficient room to accommodate additional demand. Therefore, we believe that additional capacity expansion within 2026 is not necessary at this stage.    Through the forum, HAESUNG DS was able to communicate its strategy and vision to investors and stakeholders in a more direct and transparent manner.  At the same time, we gained the balanced insight into both market expectations and concerns through diverse questions and feedback, providing an opportunity to further refine its execution strategies.    Going forward, HAESUNG DS plans to continue strengthening trust with investors through proactive IR activities and ongoing communication with the market. By flexibly responding to changing industry environments and technologies demand, the company aims to enhance business competitiveness, improve profitability, and create sustainable corporate value.    We sincerely appreciate your continued interest and support for HAESUNG DS. Thank you. 

2026.05.29
Haesung DS Participates in KB Small-Cap Copr.Day

Events

Haesung DS Participates in KB Small-Cap Copr.Day

On April 22nd, Haesung DS participated in the “KB Small-Cap Corp.Day” at the invitation of KB Securities.   The event, hosted by KB Securities, was designed to introduce small-cap companies with high growth potential to institutional investors and to share each company’s vision and strategy.  The first half of 2026 event was held over for two days, fr|om April 21st to 22nd, with total of seven companies, including Haesung DS.    Two representatives fr|om Haesung DS attended the event, sharing insights on recent market trends and future outlook. Approximately 50 institutional investors participated on the meeting,  creating a meaningful opportunity for active communication and exchange of ideas.    The presentation covered company introduction, current business status, strategic direction, shareholder return policy, and concluded with a Q&A session.  Following a 15 minutes presentation, the Q&A session allowed investors to raise various questions, which were addressed directly by the company representatives.   In particular, as the event focused on long-term growth potential and overall industry trends, discussions were more in -depth compared to typical IR meetings,  with more insightful questions and perspectives exchanged. This provided an opportunity for Haesung DS to reassess and further refine its future direction.    To share the key discussions fr|om the event with a broader group of stakeholders, we have summarized the main Q&A highlights as below :  1. Do you expect lead frame demand to remain strong over long term? Since the beginning of 2026, demand for lead frame has shown strong momentum.  Currently, demand exceeds our production capacity, and while the exact source is not entirely clear, it is believed that increased volumes are being transferred to Chinese OSAT customers.  Based on the current order backlog, we expect strong demand to continue through the second quarter and potentially extend into the second half of the year.     2. What is the current status of Japanese lead frame competitors?  Japan is generally a closed market, making it difficult for new supplier to enter.  The leading Japanese supplier is currently focusing on its core business in motor cores, not planning additional capacity expansion or capital expenditure regarding lead frame business.  As a result, Japanese customers are increasingly seeking alternative suppliers, leading to a rise in new product inquiries for our company.   3. What is the expected sales volume fr|om new Chinese package substrate customer? For the Chinese package substrate customer, current sales volume is approximately one-fifth of our major domestic DDR5 customer, indicating a relatively low contribution for now.  However, the customer is planning an IPO in the second half of 2026, along with capacity expansion. With additional capacity secured, we expect sales volume to increase to around 40% of our major customer level.    4. Are there any additional investment plans for packages substrate in 2026? While the lead frame business is operating at high utilization due to the strong demand, the package substrate segment still has available capacity.  Therefore, additional investment is unlikely in the near term, as the priority is to utilize the existing capacity. In addition, considering the anticipated decline in D1a market demand starting in the second quarter,  our number-one task is not the volume expansion but the new product qualification. Accordingly, we are focusing our efforts on achieving product approvals.   Through the Corp.Day, Haesung DS was able to communicate its strategy and vision more directly and transparently to investors and stakeholders.  The diverse perspectives and feedback provided valuable insights into markets expectations and concerns, serving as a meaningful opportunity to further refine our business direction and execution strategies.    Going forward, Haesung DS will continue to expand its IR activities and actively engage with the market. By responding flexibly to the evolving industry environment and increasing technological demands, we aim to strengthen our competitiveness, improve profitability, and enhance corporate value.  We appreciate your continued interest and support for Haesung DS. Thank you. 

2026.04.28
Haesung DS at Premier Corporate Day

Events

Haesung DS at Premier Corporate Day

On March 3, Haesung DS participated in Premier Corporate Day, hosted by Shinhan Investment Corp., marking the company’s first external IR activity of 2026. Premier Corporate Day is an event where company share its business status, strategies, and vision with major institutional investors fr|om Korea and abroad. Thanks to the continued interest of institutional investors, Haesung DS was honored to participate for the second time, following our participation in September last year.   At the event, three members of the Haesung DS IR team attended and shared insights on current market trends and future industry outlooks.  Around 60 institutional investors joined the session, creating a meaningful opportunity to exchange perspectives and discuss the company’s long-term direction. The session began with a company introduction, followed by a Q&A discussion with investors. The company overview presentation lasted about 15 minutes, after which the IR team addressed various questions fr|om the audience.   As Premier Corporate Day focuses on long-term growth and industry trends, the discussions included deeper questions and strategic insights compared to typical IR meetings.  To share the key takeaways with a broader group of stakeholders, we have summarized several highlights fr|om the Q&A session below.   1. Could you explain the applications of Haesung DS lead frames in areas such as automotive, robotics, and data centers? As vehicles transition fr|om internal combustion engines to hybrid, electric, and autonomous vehicles, the number of semiconductors required increases significantly.  Therefore, the electrification of automobiles represents a favorable trend for our business. Regarding robotics and data center demand, due to the conservativeness of semiconductor supply chain, it is difficult to precisely track end applications and product flows.  We ask for your understanding that detailed information cannot be disclosed. 2. What allows Haesung DS to maintain a competitive advantage in automotive lead frames? Haesung DS has strong technological capabilities based on μ-PPF (Micro-PPF) plating technology, which enables the production of highly reliable and stable products.  The technology is particularly suited for automotive semiconductors, which require higher reliability than general IT or consumer applications. 3. What differentiates Haesung DS in the package substrate business? Haesung DS focuses primarily on substrates for commodity DRAM. By adopting the RTR (Reel-to-Reel) production method, we have improved both cost competitiveness and productivity. Although we do not manufacture high-end products such as HBM or SOCAMM, increasing demand for commodity DRAM during memory upcycles allows us to maximize production within our existing capacity.   4. What is the progress regarding new overseas customers in the package substrate business? Mass production for our Chinese customer is targeted to begin in March, and we are working to establish favorable pricing conditions.  For our U.S. customer, factory qualification is planned within the first half of the year, with product qualification targeted by the end of the year. 5. What is the status of the new factory expansion in Changwon? Construction of the new facility was completed in the first half of 2025, and we are currently undergoing the customer approval process.  Operations are expected to begin in the second half of 2026, and the plant will be operated flexibly depending on market demand. 6. Are there any plans related to shareholder returns, such as dividends? While there is no formal dividend policy, Haesung DS has consistently paid dividends since 2016.  For the 2025 fiscal year, the board recently resolved to increase the dividend to KRW 900 per share, a KRW 100 increase fr|om the previous year.  The dividend will be distributed following approval at the shareholders’ meeting.   Through the event, Haesung DS was able to share its vision and strategy directly with investors and industry stakeholders while reaffirming the importance of transparent communication. We will continue to engage with stakeholders through various opportunities as we pursue sustainable growth. Thank you for your continued interest and support.

2026.03.09
2025 CEO IR Day with Analysts

Events

2025 CEO IR Day with Analysts

The very first step for any company aiming to build trust in the market is active communication. In particular, open communication with analysts—who evaluate companies and deliver key information to investors—is an essential process for helping the market understand corporate value accurately.   Analysts serve as professional communicators who deliver important messages to the market based on insights into a company’s strategy, performance, and industry outlook. Through communication with the analysts, companies can ensure that accurate information and credible performance forecasts are conveyed to the market, ultimately leading to proper company valuation. This is one of the most fundamental investor relations (IR) activities, helping prevent investment losses caused by information asymmetry.   A stable and consistent communication with the market is a crucial strategy for ensuring that a company’s performance is assessed fairly and for building a foundation for long-term growth. To put this strategy into practice, Haesung DS hosts the “CEO IR Day” each year—an event designed to foster direct communication between CEO and analysts.   Now, let us introduce more deeply about this year's CEO IR Day.    There were 11 analysts participated in this year’s event, joined by four executives including the CEO and two IR team members fr|om Haesung DS. Some analysts have maintained long-standing relationships with our company, making the event not only a formal IR activity but also an opportunity to reconnect with each other.   After brief greetings, the 2025 CEO IR Day officially began. The session started with an outlook on the global economy and the semiconductor industry, followed by an overview of the company, its performance, and future strategies.   The concept of this year’s CEO IR Day was “two-way communication.” We thought that explaining the basic company's information to the analysts who already know the business well will be unnecessary. Therefore, we kept the presentation concise and focused the session on an extended Q&A, encouraging participants to ask anything they wished and engage in genuine two-way dialogue.   This year’s CEO IR Day was an event where the value of conversation and communication was clearer than ever. Analysts reviewed the materials in detail and came prepared with questions they had accumulated over time. During the free and open Q&A session, meaningful and in-depth discussions took place.   Analysts posed questions about topics such as the global competitive landscape, portfolio expansion, and semiconductor market outlook—aiming to better understand the company’s long-term strategic direction. In response, HDS executives not only provided clear answers but also shared Haesung DS’s vision for the future.   What stood out the most was that this event wasn’t just a presentation—it was a true communication platform where the company’s future strategies were explored together. The blend of external perspectives fr|om analysts and internal insights fr|om management helped sharpen the company’s long-term vision.   Among the many conversations exchanged, here are a few highlights we’d like to share.   Q1. What is the future strategic direction for the lead frame business? A1. We aim to enhance performance stability and expand future business opportunities by strengthening partnerships with strategic customers and increasing sales of competitive product lines such as PPF.   Q2. Will the existing RTR(Reel-to-Reel) production method remain competitive for next-generation package substrate products? A2. We plan to maximize the strengths of the RTR method while reviewing which processes could benefit fr|om panel-type production. If needed, we are also considering operating fully panel-based processes fr|om the start to respond to DDR6 products.   Q3. What is the competitive landscape between Chinese package substrate manufacturers in the commodity memory market? A3. Following the DDR5 mass-production transition in 2025, we are rapidly expanding market share by leveraging the strengths of our RTR production method. We will continue to utilize our price and quality competitiveness to solidify our position as a major DRAM supplier.   Communication with the market is not optional—it is a responsibility and a core competitive advantage. Transparent disclosure and sincere dialogue build trust, and that trust enables companies to be evaluated more fairly. Through this year’s CEO IR Day, we witnessed once again the power of communication. Haesung DS will continue to foster strong relationships and pursue long-term growth through ongoing engagement with the market. Thank you for your continued interest and support.

2025.12.09
Haesung DS Invites you to KPCA Show 2025

Events

Haesung DS Invites you to KPCA Show 2025

We believe that every advancement in technology begins with new encounters. Haesung DS has always been dedicated to delivering better technology and greater value to the world. To keep pace with a rapidly changing market,  we have continuously improved our processes, listened closely to our customers, and devoted care to every product we produce.  Since 2023, we have been participating in KPCA Show each year, not only to share what we’ve learned but also to explore fresh ideas and possibilities. At KPCA Show 2025, Haesung DS took time to reflect on our growth and to envision the future.  We showcased our unique technologies and vision, met directly with potential customers and partners, and shared insights on the future direction of the industry.      KPCA Show is the largest PCB and electronic circuits exhibition in Korea, bringing together global companies and experts to share the latest technologies and trends.  This year’s event took place at ‘Songdo ConvensiA’ in Incheon, fr|om September 3rd to 5th, and featured not only PCB innovations but also advancements in semiconductors, electronic components, and advanced materials. For Haesung DS, KPCA Show is more than just an exhibition. It has become a platform where we directly connect with potential clients and partners,  stay ahead of industry trends, and strengthen our global network.     fr|om the morning of day one, the large hall of ‘Songdo ConvensiA’ was bustling.  While the streets outside were still quiet, inside, the hall was already filled with energy—teams setting up booths,  familiar faces exchanging greetings, and visitors eagerly waiting to enter with invitations and badges in hand.  Participants fr|om around the world gathered at the registration counters, ready to explore the latest innovations on display. Inside the exhibition hall, every booth showcased cutting-edge technology that instantly caught the attention of visitors.  Industry experts, procurement managers, corporate representatives, and even student visitors moved through the hall with clear purpose,  filling the space with excitement and curiosity.     The Haesung DS booth once again combined technology and design in a unique way.  Inspired by the concept of reels—symbolizing continuity and sustainability—the booth design featured two connected reels when viewed fr|om above. On one side, we displayed our core product lines—Lead frame, PCB Substrate, and Tape Substrate— allowing visitors to see and experience the precision of our technology firsthand.  Each product was presented with background information and application fields to help visitors better understand their value,  while real samples highlighted Haesung DS’s advanced processes and differentiation. On the opposite side, we created a networking lounge for meetings with potential customers and partners.  This space fostered active discussions about product solutions, technical collaborations, and new business opportunities,  contributing to the expansion of Haesung DS’s global partnerships. Throughout the booth, panels showcased our company’s history, global sites, and ESG initiatives, offering visitors a deeper look into Haesung DS.  Notably, our commitment to sustainable management was recognized during the event as we proudly received the Best ESG Award fr|om KPCA.  This award symbolized our dedication to both innovation and responsible growth, leaving a lasting impression on many attendees.     The representative of Haesung DS explained that this year’s booth concept was “Connecting Technology and Business.”  The goal was to create a space that visually represented our precision and reliability while also providing a comfortable environment for meaningful conversations. “We wanted to highlight not only our technical excellence but also our commitment to stability and innovation by using the ‘Reel’ shape.  The booth was designed to be more than a product showcase—it was a space to embody our philosophy and vision for the future.” “We were deeply encouraged by the overwhelming interest fr|om visitors fr|om day one.  This year, we especially emphasized our position as the world’s only manufacturer of all three substrates—Lead frame, PCB Substrate, and Tape Substrate.  This exhibition reminded us once again of the importance of pursuing sustainable growth and advancing our ESG values.”      KPCA Show 2025 was a meaningful opportunity for Haesung DS to connect more closely with customers and partners.  Moving forward, we remain committed to innovation, trusted quality, and sustainable growth—continuing to contribute to the advancement of the global industry. Thank you.

2025.09.12
Haesung DS Participates in Premier Corporate Day

Events

Haesung DS Participates in Premier Corporate Day

On September 2, Haesung DS took part in the Premier Corporate Day hosted by Shinhan Investment Corp. in Yeouido, Seoul. This major IR event brings together leading domestic and global institutional investors, as well as C-level executives fr|om top companies,  who will share information on their current business performance, strategies and long-term vision.  Haesung DS was invited by Shinhan Investment Corp. to attend the event and capitalise on strong interest fr|om the capital market. The Premier Corporate Day was far more than a simple presentation; it served as a strategic networking platform where companies and investors could actively exchange perspectives.  Participating firms engaged with investors through direct discussions, answering a variety of questions and presenting their long-term growth potential. Haesung DS also seized the opportunity to present its latest business achievements, its mid- to long-term strategy and its future vision,  thereby reinforcing its professional and trustworthy image among investors and industry stakeholders.  The event also provided valuable insights into investor interests and market trends that will inform the company’s future management strategies.     Six representatives fr|om Haesung DS attended the event, including the CEO, CFO, Head of Sales, Head of Corporate Planning and two IR managers.  The venue was filled with many institutional investors, highlighting the significant market interest in the event. The company's session began with a 15-minute introduction led by the IR team.  This was followed by a Q&A session in which the CEO and other senior executives addressed investor enquiries directly, further building credibility. Throughout the session, investors and industry experts raised insightful and in-depth questions,  confirming the strong interest in and alignment with Haesung DS’s strategy and vision.  To share this with a wider audience, we have summarized the key Q&A highlights below.      Key Q&A Highlights 1. What has supported the solid performance of the Lead Frame business? Haesung DS has proprietary mold and plating technologies with ultra-precision processing capabilities, allowing the company to apply price premiums.  This has been the key factor behind the solid performance of the Lead Frame business.   2. When do you expect a turnaround in package substrate performance? In Q2 2025, package substrate sales grew more than 20% quarter-over-quarter. Starting in the second half of 2025, we plan to gradually increase market share.  With higher shipment volumes, we expect package substrate performance to achieve a turnaround.   3. What is the status of the Changwon new plant expansion? The new plant was completed in the first half of 2025. However, since each customer requires a Product Change Notification (PCN) process,  we are currently working closely with them to ensure the fastest possible ramp-up. 4. What is Haesung DS’s outlook for the market in the second half of 2025? For the Lead frame business, we anticipate demand recovery driven by EV subsidy programs rolling out in major European countries. In package substrates,  demand is supported by customers’ HBM-focused production and a rebound in short-term demand following the phase-out of DDR4.   5. What are the main risk factors for the second half, and how are you responding? Prices of key raw materials such as copper, gold, silver, and palladium have risen significantly since the beginning of the year.  Since this could impact our performance, we are implementing various cost-saving measures to mitigate the effect.   6. What are your plans regarding shareholder returns, such as dividend policy? Since 2016, Haesung DS has consistently paid dividends as part of its shareholder return policy. Beyond dividends,  we are also reviewing additional measures to enhance corporate value.     Through the Premier Corporate Day, Haesung DS was able to directly share its vision and strategy with investors and industry stakeholders,  while also receiving constructive feedback. This reaffirmed the importance of transparent and genuine communication. Haesung DS will continue to create opportunities for open dialogue, striving for sustainable growth and innovation. We sincerely appreciate your continued interest and support.

2025.09.05
Completion Ceremony of Haesung DS

Events

Completion Ceremony of Haesung DS

On May 28, a sense of excitement filled the air at Haesung DS. It was the day we held the completion ceremony to commemorate the successful conclusion of the expansion project.   The journey began in 2022 came to a close, thanks to the dedication and hard work of countless individuals, all without a major incident.      The expansion project officially began in January 2022 with the planning phase, followed by an MOU with Changwon City on March 23 of the same year.  On July 12, we held the ceremony in the presence of distinguished guests, marking the first step of construction.   Fast forward nearly three years, and all planned structures — including the parking tower, wastewater treatment plant, office building, and main manufacturing building — are now complete. We have officially achieved every milestone we set out to accomplish.     The completion ceremony was graced by many guests who generously supported the success of this ambitious project. It was a meaningful occasion, highlighting our journey so far and recognizing the contributions of those who worked tirelessly behind the scenes with commendation plaques.     The expansion was not an easy decision — especially in the face of a challenging semiconductor market.   Nevertheless, we committed to an investment of approximately KRW 320 billion (USD 230 million) because we firmly believed in the need to prepare for the upcoming semiconductor 'Super Cycle'. To proactively respond to growing global demand and enhance customer satisfaction, we constructed a new manufacturing building, significantly increasing our production capacity.     We also designed the new office space to be more than just a workplace. Built with a focus on both efficiency and employee well-being, we hope this environment fosters greater innovation and performance.   In our commitment to sustainability, we established a new wastewater treatment facility to recycle the water used in manufacturing processes. This marks another meaningful step forward in Haesung DS’s journey toward responsible, sustainable management.     With the expansion, we’ve laid a solid foundation for the implementation of smart factories and the future growth of our business. This isn’t just a physical expansion — it’s a strategic transformation that reflects Haesung DS’s dedication to growing both on technology and value making. As a leader in the era of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, Haesung DS is committed to pioneering the future of Korean semiconductor materials industry. Even in a rapidly evolving global market, we will stay grounded and focused on becoming a globally competitive and sustainable enterprise.     Today, we prepare to leap forward fr|om the new foundation.   To become a company where technology and value coexist. To become a company that creates a positive impact on customers and society.   We sincerely thank you for your continued interest and support.

2025.06.16
Celebrating a Decade of Growth: Haesung DS Suzhou Marks 10th Anniversary

Interview

Celebrating a Decade of Growth: Haesung DS Suzhou Marks 10th Anniversary

In 2015, Haesung DS took a bold step toward global expansion by establishing its first overseas corporation in Suzhou, China. Since then, the company has faced numerous challenges in the complex market environment. But with technological excellence and agility, SHDS(SuzhouHaesung DS) quickly gained a foothold, evolving into a key part of Haesung DS’s global network.   Fast forward to 2025 — the Suzhou office is now celebrating its 10th anniversary.   To mark this special milestone, we sat down with Mr. Jikhyun Ko, Deputy General Manager and Head of the Suzhou Corporation, to reflect on the past decade and share the journey fr|om the ground in China. Mr. Ko and Employees of SHDS are celebrating the 10th anniversary.   Q : Congratulations on the 10th anniversary! Please briefly introduce yourself and the Suzhou corporation. A : Hello, I’m Jikhyun Ko, head of Haesung DS Suzhou. Aside fr|om myself, all of our staff are locally hired and currently we have 13 team members based in Suzhou and 2 in our Shenzhen office. Our Suzhou office is located in one of the most advanced industrial parks in the city. Our main role is to serve as the direct sales and communication channel for over 30 local lead frame customers and over 10 BGA clients spread across China. In short, we handle direct client engagement and activities that are difficult to manage fr|om our headquarters in Seoul.     The building to which SHDS office belongs. Q : What do you think has been the key to Haesung DS’s success in the Chinese market? A : China is one of the most fiercely competitive markets in the world, and it also requires a deep understanding of its unique culture and business environment. To adapt, we’ve emphasized local operations, consistent client engagement, and proactive response to competitor activities. Our strategy has always been customer-first. By identifying and responding to their needs, we’ve bridged communication gaps between headquarters and the local market. This front-line approach helped us achieve remarkable growth — doubling our business — during a time when many other Korean companies were downsizing or withdrawing fr|om the Chinese market.   The entrance of SHDS office.   Q : Looking back, what’s been the most memorable moment in your time as head of the Suzhou office? A : Every day in the field brings new and unexpected challenges. But if I had to pick one, I’d say the transition that happened just six months into my assignment — when we terminated our agency partnership and moved toward independent operation.   Previously, we had relied on a local agency for market research and customer interaction. But right as I arrived, that contract ended. I had to lead the communication with customer, hire new staffs, and open the Shenzhen office. I spent the entire year to stabilize the operations.   At the time, it was overwhelming and exhausted. But watching the corporation grow stronger with time, I came to believe that nothing is impossible with persistence.   The SHDS office.   Q : Working alone overseas must have had difficult moments. How did you stay motivated?   A : It’s true — as the sole Korean employee here, I often face cultural and environmental challenges. To strengthen our team, we host at least one group recreational activity per month. In fact, we held a special celebration last May to commemorate our 10-year anniversary with all our staff.   Personally, I relieve stress through exercise, and I’ve also found joy in connecting with other Korean expats and their families through local networks. But more than anything, I owe my resilience to the unwavering support of my family, who have always believed in me.   Mr. Ko and Employees of SHDS are celebrating the 10th anniversary.   Q : What is your vision for the next 10 years of the Suzhou corporation? A : Building on our independence in 2023 and the expansion of our Shenzhen office in 2024, we plan to explore further inland by establishing new bases in cities like Xi’an in 2025. We’re also looking to add dedicated engineers to our team to directly address technical issues, streamline processes, and enhance our service capabilities. Looking even further, setting up a local manufacturing site in China may become essential for long-term survival and growth. Currently, China accounts for about 35% of Haesung DS’s total revenue — I believe we can raise the ratio to over 50%. It won’t be easy, but with consistent effort and strategic execution, it’s a target within reach.   Ceremonial cake for SHDS 10th anniversary. The trust and achievements built over the past 10 years are a true source of pride for Haesung DS Suzhou. We thank all our employees who have walked this journey with us.  As we move forward, we remain committed to driving Haesung DS’s global growth — together.   Thank you.  

2025.06.11
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