South Korean intelligence detected 107 industrial technology leakage cases targeting foreign entities over the past five years, with semiconductor innovations comprising nearly 40 percent of the total breaches, according to data released on Sunday.
Semiconductor Tech Leaks Dominate Data
Semiconductor technology recorded the highest volume of thefts, accounting for 40 separate incidents between 2021 and 2025, according to data submitted by the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy to the National Assembly. The National Intelligence Service (NIS) tracked these violations, which also included 21 display technology cases and 10 electrical and electronics cases.
National Core Technologies Under Threat
Out of the 107 total leaks, 31 cases specifically involved national core technologies. The South Korean government designates these assets as critical to national security and economic stability due to their high commercial value and growth potential, the NIS stated. Among national core assets, semiconductors again led the category with nine targeted breaches, followed by five cases each in display technology and electrical and electronics.
Did You Know?
The NIS data shows that industrial espionage extends beyond microchips. Automotive technologies accounted for seven leakage cases, while shipbuilding manufacturing techniques were involved in six separate incidents during the same five-year timeframe.
High-Profile Chip Leaks to China
A prominent case highlighted in the data involves a former manager at Samsung Electronics who allegedly leaked 18-nanometer DRAM production technology to Chinese chipmaker ChangXin Memory Technologies. The compromised production method holds official status as a national core technology, according to reporting by Yonhap.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many industrial technology leaks were detected in South Korea?
The National Intelligence Service detected 107 foreign leakage cases between 2021 and 2025.
Which sector faced the most technology thefts?
Semiconductor technology suffered the highest volume, accounting for 40 cases, or nearly 40 percent of all recorded incidents.
What defines a national core technology?
The South Korean government classifies these as critical assets vital to national security and economic growth based on their commercial value and future potential.
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