Sehyun Kim (LG Chem) and Yangil Choi (Emtek) Named July Recipients of the Korea Engineer Award

Achievements in Carbon Nanotube and Semiconductor Filling Equipment Technology Development

Sehyun Kim, Research Fellow at LG Chem Ltd., who developed the mass production technology for carbon nanotubes (CNTs)—a key material for secondary batteries—and Yangil Choi, CEO of Emtek Co., Ltd., who localized automated photoresist filling equipment for semiconductors, have been selected as the July recipients of the 'Korea Engineer Award.'

The Ministry of Science and ICT and the Korea Industrial Technology Association announced on July 13, 2026, that Sehyun Kim (LG Chem Ltd.) and Yangil Choi (Emtek Co., Ltd.) have been chosen as the recipients of the Korea Engineer Award for July 2026.

Sehyun Kim, Research Fellow at LG Chem Ltd. Provided by Ministry of Science and ICT

The Korea Engineer Award is a recognition program operated since 2002, which selects engineers who have contributed to technological innovation in the industrial field and the enhancement of national industrial competitiveness. The award is presented by the Minister of Science and ICT and includes a monetary prize.

Contributions to the Localization of Secondary Battery Materials and Semiconductor Equipment

Sehyun Kim was recognized for his achievement in developing the mass production technology for conductive carbon nanotubes (CNTs), a key material that facilitates electron movement in secondary batteries. By applying a process that utilizes a catalyst-coated support instead of an iron (Fe) catalyst, he eliminated the need for post-processing, improved productivity, and fundamentally prevented the introduction of magnetic impurities, thereby enhancing battery safety.

This technology increased productivity by 240% compared to previous methods, achieved a 100% localization rate for conductive materials, and contributed to surpassing KRW 100 billion in sales last year.

Yangil Choi, CEO of Emtek Co., Ltd. Provided by the Ministry of Science and ICT

Yangil Choi was recognized for localizing automated photoresist filling equipment, which previously had a high dependency on foreign products in semiconductor manufacturing processes. By implementing a precision injection technology that minimizes bubble formation, achieving a filling accuracy within ±1g, and developing precise fastening technology, he improved both the quality and productivity of semiconductor processes.

Based on this technology, Emtek Co., Ltd. supplied automated equipment to semiconductor production sites, recording sales of KRW 13.8 billion in 2024—a roughly 260% increase compared to 2021.

Sehyun Kim stated, "I will continue to develop innovative material technologies that can change the market landscape and contribute to the advancement of Korea's battery industry and a sustainable future."

Yangil Choi said, "It is meaningful to be recognized for the continuously advanced automation equipment technology. We will continue to pursue innovation and challenges to grow into a leading company in the global semiconductor equipment market."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.