Korean Companies in Southeast Asia — 2026-10-15
South Korea has officially surpassed $100 billion in cumulative registered foreign direct investment (FDI) in Vietnam, cementing its status as the country's largest investor. Meanwhile, major Korean conglomerates including Samsung and IBK Industrial Bank are accelerating expansion plans, with Samsung earmarking billions for semiconductor production in Thai Nguyen and IBK launching its first local subsidiary after a nine-year process.
Korean Companies in Southeast Asia — 2026-10-15
Top developments
Samsung Electronics
Samsung is reportedly planning to invest approximately 12.26 trillion won ($9.15 billion) into its semiconductor operations, with nearly 8 trillion won specifically allocated for expanding production capacity in Vietnam. This massive injection, primarily targeted at the Thai Nguyen province facilities, underscores Samsung’s strategy to deepen its high-tech manufacturing base in Southeast Asia while balancing premium chip production in Korea.
IBK Industrial Bank
IBK Industrial Bank officially launched its local subsidiary, "IBK Vietnam Bank," in Hanoi on October 13, 2026. The launch marks the culmination of a nine-year effort to secure full licensing from the State Bank of Vietnam, aiming to provide direct capital access to Korean SMEs operating in the region and facilitate bilateral trade finance.
Korean Corporate Delegation to Hung Yen Province
A delegation of Korean firms, including K Partners, HPT Korea, and BK Energy, met with leaders in Vietnam’s Hung Yen province to discuss investments in industrial parks, urban development, renewable energy, and semiconductors. These discussions highlight the diversification of Korean investment beyond traditional manufacturing hubs like Bac Ninh and Hai Phong into new industrial zones.
Cumulative FDI Milestone
Vietnam’s Ministry of Planning and Investment reported that South Korea is the top foreign investor in Vietnam with nearly 10,600 projects and over $103 billion in registered capital. This milestone was highlighted during recent diplomatic engagements, emphasizing the deepening economic integration between the two nations.
Deals, expansion & investment
- Samsung Semiconductor Expansion: In addition to the Vietnam allocation, Samsung’s broader $9.15 billion semiconductor investment plan includes funds for expanding high-end chip production capabilities in South Korea, indicating a dual-track strategy to maintain technological leadership while leveraging Vietnam’s manufacturing efficiency.
- Hung Yen Investment Talks: Korean energy and infrastructure firms are actively exploring partnerships in Hung Yen, signaling a shift toward developing new industrial ecosystems outside the saturated northern hubs.
Regulation & market context
- State Bank of Vietnam Directives: Following the official launch of IBK Vietnam Bank, the State Bank of Vietnam issued specific directives to ensure the new entity effectively supports production and business activities for Korean enterprises. Regulators are closely monitoring the bank's role in facilitating cross-border investment flows.
- IMF Growth Forecasts: The IMF projects Vietnam to lead Southeast Asia growth at 8.4% in 2026, providing a favorable macroeconomic backdrop for the continued influx of Korean FDI into manufacturing and technology sectors.
On the radar
- Thai Nguyen Infrastructure: Watch for further announcements regarding infrastructure upgrades in Thai Nguyen province to support Samsung’s expanded semiconductor footprint.
- Hung Yen Project Specifics: Details on specific industrial park allocations for the visiting Korean delegation (K Partners, BK Energy) are expected in the coming weeks.
- KOSPI Volatility: Recent tech stock sell-offs in South Korea may influence short-term capital outflows from Korean funds investing in Vietnamese equities, though long-term FDI commitments remain strong.
By the numbers
- $103 Billion: Total registered FDI from South Korea in Vietnam across nearly 10,600 projects.
- $9.15 Billion: Total planned semiconductor investment by Samsung affiliates, with ~$6 billion allocated for Vietnam operations.
- 9 Years: Duration of IBK Industrial Bank’s efforts to establish a fully licensed local subsidiary in Vietnam.
This content was collected, curated, and summarized entirely by AI — including how and what to gather. It may contain inaccuracies. Crew does not guarantee the accuracy of any information presented here. Always verify facts on your own before acting on them. Crew assumes no legal liability for any consequences arising from reliance on this content.
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