Semiconductor Laboratory Accidents Surge; Government to Conduct On-Site Inspections

[Financial News] The Ministry of Science and ICT announced on the 27th that it will conduct special on-site inspections and provide tailored support to improve safety management in semiconductor laboratories.
Semiconductor research involves handling large quantities of highly acidic solutions and toxic gases in cleanrooms, where hazardous-material leaks can cause significant damage, requiring strict caution.
However, as semiconductor research has expanded, accidents in semiconductor laboratories at universities in South Korea have nearly doubled, rising from 18 in 2023 to 32 in 2025.
Beginning with Korea University of Technology and Education (KOREATECH) in late September, the Ministry of Science and ICT will conduct pilot inspections at three institutions by the end of the year. Next year, it will expand the inspections to 22 major universities and government-funded research institutes nationwide.
The ministry also plans to develop and distribute a self-inspection checklist for semiconductor laboratories by the end of this year, along with safety guidelines and educational content tailored to semiconductor research activities.
It will also provide consulting support to universities and research institutions newly establishing semiconductor laboratories so that safety can be considered from the design stage.
The Ministry of Science and ICT will also work to establish a collaboration framework, including signing a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the National Institute of Chemical Safety by the end of this year.
Lee Joonbae, director general of the Future Talent Policy Bureau at the Ministry of Science and ICT, said, "It is of utmost importance to create a safe environment where researchers can focus solely on semiconductor research without worrying about laboratory accidents." He added, "We will actively support efforts to establish a comprehensive safety net tailored to research sites by working with specialized institutions."
[email protected] Jang Min-kwon Reporter