2 Korean Firms Sign High-Purity specialty Gas Deal
Jeongseok Chemical, led by CEO Kim Yong-hyun, announced on the 22nd that it has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for the supply of high-purity specialty gases with Korea Specialty Materials, represented by Kim Jin-sun.
The purpose of this agreement is to establish a South Korean supply chain for lithium sulfide (Li₂S), a critical raw material necessary for producing sulfide-based all-solid-state batteries.
Jeongseok Chemical successfully developed the industry's first lithium sulfide manufacturing process in 2022 and is currently mass-producing it at its Wanju Industrial Complex plant. Currently, Jeongseok Chemical is supplying trial products to major clients in countries such as the United States and Japan, as well as to major domestic companies. The company is also proceeding with the construction of a second plant, aiming for mass production by 2027.
High-purity hydrogen sulfide (99.9999%), a key raw material for lithium sulfide production, has historically been entirely dependent on expensive overseas imports. This has consistently raised concerns about cost burden and supply stability. The company stated, "Through this supply contract, a domestic production system for high-purity hydrogen sulfide will be put into operation, which will enable cost reduction and stable raw material supply, thereby enhancing product competitiveness."
Korea Specialty Materials plans to complete the licensing process this year, begin construction of a specialty gas production plant in January 2026, finish construction in October, and commence supply in November. Jeongseok Chemical's second lithium sulfide plant is also under construction and is expected to be completed in 2026. Both companies plan to establish a "supply-production linkage system" through close cooperation.
Jeongseok Chemical CEO Kim Yong-hyun stated, "This agreement goes beyond a simple supply contract; it represents an important step towards the localization and self-sufficiency of the all-solid-state battery industry." He added, "Through continuous R&D and cooperation, we will demonstrate the excellence of South Korean battery material technology in the global market."
