Samsung Electronics will invest 240 billion won to establish an HVAC production line at its Gwangju plant in North Gwangju, marking the first such investment since the plant's establishment in 1989.
The HVAC products will control indoor and outdoor temperature, humidity, and air quality.
The company plans to build a production line covering 21,800 square meters, equivalent to three soccer fields.
The Gwangju plant has evolved from a home appliance manufacturing base to a key production site for AI-enabled appliances, including the Bespoke AI Family Hub refrigerator, Bespoke AI Combo washer-dryer, and Bespoke AI Wind-Free air conditioner.
Samsung aims to capitalize on the rapidly growing global HVAC market, driven by a surge in investments in artificial intelligence (AI) infrastructure.
On the 19th, Samsung signed an investment agreement with FlaktGroup Korea and the Gwangju Metropolitan City at the Gwangju City Hall.
Attendees included Min Hyung-bae, Mayor of Gwangju, Kim Cheol-ki, head of Samsung's Digital Appliances and HVAC division, and Lim Seong-taek, CEO of FlaktGroup Korea.
The Gwangju Metropolitan City anticipates that this investment will serve as a significant turning point for the region's manufacturing sector, advancing it into high-value-added industries.
Additionally, a dedicated task force will be established to expedite various permitting processes, creating a one-stop support system for investment.
Mayor Min stated, "The AI and semiconductor industries are connecting in Gwangju, leading to an increase in job opportunities for local residents. We will support the Gwangju plant in becoming a core production base in the global HVAC market."
Kim Cheol-ki, Vice President of Samsung Electronics, remarked, "The Gwangju plant has been a vital site supporting Samsung's home appliance production for the past 37 years. We will strengthen collaboration with local partners and contribute to enhancing regional industrial competitiveness, actively supporting Gwangju's growth as a key hub in the global HVAC industry."
In November of last year, Samsung acquired FlaktGroup, the largest HVAC company in Europe. Founded in 1918, FlaktGroup supplies central HVAC products and solutions to homes, offices, schools, hospitals, and advanced facilities in 65 countries, generating over 700 million euros in annual revenue.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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