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Koo Ja-geun, a lawmaker from the People Power Party, proposed the creation of a dedicated research institute for materials, components, and equipment (MSE) to address global patent disputes and enhance competitiveness in the semiconductor sector. He stressed the integration of existing support policies into a single organization that covers research and development, talent development, and corporate support.

Koo noted that domestic MSE companies are under financial strain from patent disputes, pointing to 12 lawsuits filed by Lam Research against local firms since 2020. Current MSE support programs are fragmented across ministries, lacking coordination.

Koo called for a control tower to manage R&D, testing, and talent development. The passing of the Special Act on Semiconductors highlights the need for this initiative to secure technological independence and bolster competitiveness.