Last week (17 – 21 February) was all about innovation, collaboration, and knowledge exchange at SEMICON Korea 2025. Netherlands Embassy and Sobujang as organiser, played a key role in connecting Dutch and Korean companies in the semiconductor sector in partnership with High Tech NL.

A strong start: company visits in South-Korea

The week kicked off on Tuesday, February 18, with an exclusive company tour to Unijet, Mirtec, and Movensys. These leading Korean companies showcased cutting-edge precision dispensing, advanced inspection systems, and motion control technologies. A truly insightful start to an exciting week!

The Netherlands Embassy Pavilion

On Wednesday, February 19, SEMICON Korea officially began, and the Netherlands Embassy Pavilion quickly became a buzzing hotspot. With ten co-exhibitors and the great organising support of the Embassy team, the pavilion fostered valuable business connections. Our director, Eric-Mark Huitema, had the opportunity to meet all co-exhibitors and attended the grand opening ceremony at Auditorium Hall. Thanks to Sobujang’s matchmaking sessions, Dutch and Korean companies connected in meaningful ways.

Source: Economische zaken

High-Level engagements & knowledge sharing

Thursday, February 20, was a day of strategic meetings and knowledge exchange. We had the honor of welcoming Minister Beljaards of Foreign Affairs and Dutch Ambassador to Korea, Peter van der Vliet, to the pavilion. Eric-Mark, introduced them to our co-exhibitors, who showcased their technological advancements.

Later, we attended the Dutch R&D Seminar, featuring an inspiring keynote speech by Peter Wennink (former CEO of ASML) and a presentation by Micha Tahar, highlighting High Tech NL, the Dutch semiconductor ecosystem, and the role of NFIA. The day ended with an exclusive Dutch networking reception, a great opportunity to strengthen industry connections.

Focusing on the future

On Friday, February 21, the focus shifted towards the future of the semiconductor industry. Together with Sobujang and the Embassy, we welcomed leading Dutch companies, including ASML, BESI, Bronckhorst, and ASM, who presented their latest technologies to students eager to enter the field.

Additionally, our co-exhibitors participated in an exclusive booth tour, visiting key industry leaders such as Semes, Wonik, Jusung, and ASMPT. Back at the pavilion, the event wrapped up with important business meetings, setting the stage for future collaborations.

Reflecting on a successful week

Despite its compact space, the Netherlands Embassy Pavilion stood out as an open, dynamic, and highly organized platform for industry engagement. A huge thank you to Peter Wijlhuizen, Joo-Won, the entire Netherlands Embassy team and Sobujang for their outstanding efforts and good organisation in making this event a success.

Until next time, South-Korea!