South Korea links water security to semiconductor expansion

South Korea’s Ministry of Climate, Energy and Environment has reviewed plans to secure water supplies for the new Honam semiconductor industrial complex, highlighting the growing importance of water infrastructure for advanced chip manufacturing.

First Vice Minister Kum Hanseung inspected Naju Lake, Jangheung Dam, Boseong River Dam and Juam Dam as part of a review of the infrastructure needed to support the project and coordination between relevant organisations.

The government aims to secure 650,000 tonnes of industrial water per day for the semiconductor complex. Plans include using surplus dam capacity, repurposing part of the water currently allocated for power generation and making use of unused water resources.

Officials also reviewed measures to safeguard agricultural water supplies while expanding industrial capacity. Proposed infrastructure includes new pumping stations and pipelines connected to the Yeongsan River, alongside consultations with farmers to minimise disruption.

The government said it will work with the Korea Water Resources Corporation, Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power and the Korea Rural Community Corporation to ensure reliable water supplies, including during periods of drought, while supporting the growth of the Honam semiconductor industry.

Why does it matter?

Reliable access to water is essential for semiconductor manufacturing, where large volumes are needed for wafer fabrication and equipment cleaning. As countries invest in expanding domestic chip production, water infrastructure is becoming an increasingly strategic component of industrial policy alongside energy, transport and skilled labour.

The project also illustrates the growing need to balance industrial development with environmental sustainability and competing demands for natural resources. Coordinating water management across industry, agriculture and local communities will be critical as governments expand advanced manufacturing capacity.

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