[Alpha Biz= Cha Hye Young] Seoul, October 10 — South Korean power semiconductor startup Dicio announced that it has signed a strategic memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Mitsui & Co., one of Japan’s largest general trading companies, to supply advanced power semiconductor products to Japan and global markets.
Under the agreement, Dicio will supply its silicon carbide (SiC) and insulated-gate bipolar transistor (IGBT)-based high-voltage and high-current power semiconductor devices and modules through Mitsui’s global distribution network.
Mitsui & Co., with annual revenue of approximately ₩140 trillion, operates across diverse sectors including energy, infrastructure, mobility, and chemicals, and is known for its extensive industrial and supply chain network.
Industry experts view the deal as a significant milestone that combines symbolic and practical importance. “This MOU goes beyond a simple export partnership — it could reshape the competitive landscape of the global power semiconductor industry,” said one industry insider.
Traditionally, Japan has led the market in core power semiconductor technology and high-value devices, while Korea has focused on post-processing and component supply. Dicio aims to change that dynamic with its technological breakthroughs. The company became the first in Korea to commercialize 1,700V-class IGBTs, and recently developed a 1,700V·1,200A SiC hybrid IGBT module.
This new module is attracting strong interest from Japanese firms, as it can reduce component count and improve system efficiency in electric vehicle chargers, energy storage systems (ESS), solar inverters, and high-voltage direct current (HVDC) transmission.
Leveraging Mitsui’s broad industrial network and distribution capabilities, Dicio plans to establish a strong foothold in Japan while expanding into North America, Europe, and other Asian markets.
Dicio CEO Kang Mi-sun stated, “Together with Mitsui & Co., we will build a robust global supply framework for high-voltage SiC and IGBT solutions that meet the needs of global customers. Our goal is to elevate Korea’s presence in high-efficiency applications such as EVs, renewable energy, and industrial power conversion.”
Alphabiz 차혜영 기자(kay33@alphabiz.co.kr)
