#South Korea #Park Systems #AFM #Gwacheon #nanometrology

Park Systems Corp. Leads the AFM Market

GWACHEON, South Korea — In a remarkable feat, Park Systems Corp. has sustained its distinction as the preeminent manufacturer of atomic force microscopy (AFM) systems by revenue for four consecutive years, from 2022 to 2025. This accomplishment was highlighted in the recent QY Research's Global Atomic Force Microscopy Market Report, predicting robust growth for the sector in the coming years.

According to the report, Park Systems captured 23.8% of the global AFM revenue as of 2025, underscoring its position as a key player in the industry. The company not only led in revenue generation but also in unit shipments, moving 340 AFM systems in the same year, thus ranking first in both categories covered by the research.

Market Growth and Future Trends

The global AFM market is on the brink of substantial growth, with QY Research estimating that it reached approximately $508.69 million in revenue by 2025 and projecting to double that figure to nearly $1.01 billion by 2032. This translates to a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 11.23% over the forecast period. An exciting trend highlighted in the report is the rapid expansion of the Industrial Grade AFM segment, expected to witness an impressive CAGR of 15.72%. This growth is driven by advancements in automated wafer metrology as well as enhanced functionalities for high-value semiconductor processes.

It's notable that despite Industrial Grade systems accounting for only 14.54% of total unit shipments in 2025, they generated a significant 43.41% of the overall market revenue. This disparity is attributed to the higher pricing associated with these specialized systems, reflecting their advanced capabilities and importance in various industrial applications.

Diverse Customer Base

Park Systems serves a broad spectrum of customers, including fabrication facilities, semiconductor foundries, integrated device manufacturers (IDMs), and prestigious research institutions. The semiconductor and electronics sectors are recognized as the most lucrative applications for AFM technology, emphasizing the critical role these instruments play in modern material analysis and production.

Innovations and Research Investments

In keeping with its growth trajectory, Park Systems continues to explore avenues for enhancing its research capabilities. Just recently in April 2026, they launched the NX1, a Research Grade AFM tailored for atomic-scale imaging under ambient conditions. Designed with a robust thermal architecture, the NX1 aims to minimize mechanical noises, ensuring reliability and high-resolution performance for scientific investigations.

Moreover, the company has augmented its nanometrology offerings through strategic acquisitions. The acquisition of Germany's Accurion GmbH in 2022 brought in innovative technologies in imaging spectroscopic ellipsometry and active vibration isolation, while the 2025 purchase of Lyncée Tec SA in Switzerland enhanced its portfolio with digital holographic microscopy. These expansions allow Park Systems to provide diversified measurement techniques suitable for both research and industrial contexts.

Conclusion

With its strong commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction, Park Systems is poised to remain at the forefront of the AFM industry. As it continues to lead in both revenue and unit shipments, the firm's strategic investments and advancements in technology signal a promising future for the organization and the broader nanometrology market. Founded by Dr. Sang-il Park, who played a pivotal role in the invention of AFM at Stanford University, the company exemplifies a blend of foundational research and cutting-edge technological advancements, paving the way for the future of material measurement solutions. The ongoing efforts of Park Systems reflect its dedication to leading the way in atomic force microscopy and ensuring accessibility to advanced metrology solutions across diverse sectors.