Korea Launches Special Task Force for Rare Earth Supply Chain
Facing pressure from China's rare earth control, the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy of South Korea announced on October 16, 2025, the establishment of a special task force for the rare earth supply chain to cope with the challenges of export controls on the rare earth supply chain. South Korea's semiconductor industry is indeed powerful, and it is the lifeline of South Korea. However, producing semiconductors requires high-purity rare earth cerium, and without it, South Korea cannot produce advanced chips. In addition, OLED displays produced by South Korea require rare earths such as europium and terbium, which are key materials for red and green phosphors. It is known that South Korea relies on Chinese imports for 90% of its rare earth oxides, and in core areas such as rare earth refining, separation, and the production of permanent magnet materials, it completely depends on Chinese technology. It is unknown what special measures South Korea will take next!
Original text: www.toutiao.com/article/1846186387322888/
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