Shares of YCChem (KOSDAQ: 112290) soared on Tuesday following reports that Samsung Electronics (KRX: 005930) is advancing into the semiconductor glass substrate market. The company is reportedly collaborating with multiple materials, components, and equipment suppliers to establish a proprietary supply chain.

As of 2:53 PM (KST) on February 6, YCChem’s stock was trading at 22,250 KRW, up 2,990 KRW (15.52%) from the previous day.

Samsung’s Strategic Move into Glass Substrates

According to industry reports, Samsung’s Device Solutions (DS) division is leading discussions on glass substrate production. The company aims to build an independent supply chain, signaling its commitment to in-house manufacturing of this next-generation semiconductor component.

Glass substrates are a critical technology for AI chips and advanced semiconductor applications, offering superior performance, power efficiency, and miniaturization compared to traditional substrates. While companies like Intel, Absolix, Samsung Electro-Mechanics, and LG Innotek have been exploring glass substrate development, Samsung’s direct entry into production marks a significant industry shift.

If Samsung successfully mass-produces glass substrates with superior scale and performance, it could reshape the semiconductor substrate market and potentially supply the technology to rival chipmakers like Intel and AMD. Currently, AMD is considering adopting glass substrates for its semiconductor chips, while Intel has been leading development efforts in the field.

YCChem Gains Momentum

As Samsung moves forward with its glass substrate initiative, YCChem has attracted investor attention due to its pioneering role in glass substrate materials technology. The company developed the world’s first specialized polymer glass coating designed to protect etched semiconductor glass substrates from cracking. In 2023, YCChem further expanded its portfolio by introducing two new glass substrate materials for semiconductor applications.

With Samsung’s entry into glass substrate manufacturing, YCChem’s expertise in advanced coatings and materials is gaining renewed market interest, positioning it as a key player in the evolving semiconductor ecosystem.