Nearly 40% of South Korean Industrial Technology Leaks Involve Semiconductors

According to data from South Korea's National Intelligence Service (NIS), nearly 40% of industrial technology leaks over the past five years have involved semiconductors. This alarming statistic underscores the vulnerabilities within a sector critical to the nation's economy.

The NIS reported a total of 107 cases of industrial technology leaks between 2021 and 2025, with semiconductor technologies accounting for 40 cases. Other sectors affected include display technologies and electrical technologies, which recorded 21 and 10 leaks, respectively.

Of the total leaks, 31 were categorized as national core technologies, essential for national security and economic stability. Notably, semiconductors led these cases as well, highlighting the sector's importance.

A particularly concerning incident involved a former Samsung Electronics manager accused of leaking sensitive manufacturing technology to a Chinese competitor. This case exemplifies the ongoing challenges South Korea faces in protecting its technological advancements.

As the global competition in semiconductor technology intensifies, the South Korean government is under pressure to enhance security measures to safeguard its industrial secrets.