#South Korea #Seoul #Semiconductor #SurplusGLOBAL #SemiMarket

SurplusGLOBAL's New Venture

SurplusGLOBAL, a prominent name in the semiconductor sector, has recognized the growing challenges faced by the legacy semiconductor equipment supply chain. As manufacturers pivot towards cutting-edge technology and equipment, the support for older models is swiftly dwindling. This trend has left over 3,000 semiconductor fabrication plants (fabs) around the globe grappling with severe supply chain issues. Not even industry giants like Samsung, TSMC, Intel, SK hynix, and Micron can evade these difficulties that threaten production continuity due to equipment shortages.

The looming risk is stark: fabs unable to procure essential equipment parts promptly risk halting production entirely. At the same time, valuable semiconductor equipment parts often go unsold, leading to wastage as distributors navigate the increasingly complex distribution networks.

The Launch of SemiMarket

In response to these challenges, SurplusGLOBAL has unveiled 'SemiMarket', an AI-infused global marketplace aimed at fostering collaboration within the legacy semiconductor ecosystem. This initiative marks a significant evolution in SurplusGLOBAL's operations over the past 25 years, during which they have become adept at sourcing obsolete parts and developing substitutes. Discerning that a unified platform was necessary to tackle ongoing supply chain woes, SurplusGLOBAL has made substantial investments, reportedly between USD 20 and 50 million over five years, in building SemiMarket through global partnerships.

SemiMarket is set to function as a hybrid platform that enhances interaction between buyers and sellers using an AI-driven recommendation systems. By leveraging an extensive global network that has facilitated the supply of over 60,000 used equipment units to more than 6,000 companies, this platform aims to streamline transactions in the legacy semiconductor sector.

Features of the SemiMarket

Scheduled to launch in December 2025, SemiMarket is currently in the process of onboarding over 500 sellers. Interest has surged from notable semiconductor fabs and parts dealers, indicating the marketplace's potential to reshape the purchase and sale of semiconductor components.

In tandem with the online platform, SurplusGLOBAL is also working on establishing the 'SemiMarket Parts Mall', a sprawling facility covering 39,670 square meters, located close to their current semiconductor equipment cluster. Expected to be completed by May 2026, this mall will host components storage, recycling facilities, and refurbishment services, all aimed at improving operational efficiencies and customer service.

Furthermore, as part of its commitment to enhancing the legacy equipment supply chain, SurplusGLOBAL is aligning with parts manufacturers and distributors to expand its product offerings, including new parts and consumables that meet industry demands. The inclusion of repair solutions also plays a crucial role in this ecosystem improvement, spearheaded by EQ GLOBAL, a subsidiary specializing in RF and PCB repairs.

A Vision for the Future

Bruce Kim, CEO of SurplusGLOBAL, expressed his aspirations for SemiMarket, describing it as a fulfillment of a "25-year dream" to create a platform that efficiently addresses the antiquated semiconductor parts market. He firmly believes that with strong partnerships and innovative solutions, SemiMarket will not only be successful but will significantly revolutionize the supply and support for legacy semiconductor equipment.

As part of its promotional efforts, SurplusGLOBAL will showcase SemiMarket at SEMICON KOREA 2025, where it will demonstrate how this platform is set to transform the industry landscape and streamline operations for thousands of buyers and sellers annually. With these initiatives, SurplusGLOBAL aims to position SemiMarket as the foremost global platform for legacy semiconductor equipment and parts by the end of 2026, with an ambitious target of attracting 50,000 daily visitors to its site, up from the current 3,000.

Conclusion

SurplusGLOBAL's commitment to innovation within the semiconductor landscape presents a promising outlook. As they prepare to launch SemiMarket, they stand at the forefront of addressing the challenges plaguing the legacy semiconductor equipment supply chain, ultimately paving the path towards a more connected and efficient future in the industry.