홈
SK Nexilis Expands Legal Action Against Solus, Highlighting Patent Competitiveness
l Filed a second amended complaint in the ongoing U.S. patent infringement lawsuit against Solus Advanced Materialsl Sought injunctive relief, including a sales ban, following findings that Solus products distributed in Europe infringed patentsl Korea Intellectual Property Trial and Appeal Board invalidated four patents held by Solus Advanced Materials SK Nexilis, SKC's subsidiary specializing in copper foil for EV batteries, announced on the 29th that it has added trade secret violation claims against Solus Advanced Materials in connection with the ongoing U.S. patent infringement injunction lawsuit.Earlier this month, SK Nexilis filed a second amended complaint in its ongoing patent infringement injunction case (Case No. 2:23-cv-00539) in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Texas. In this latest filing, SK Nexilis asserted additional claims against Solus Advanced Materials and its affiliates, alleging violations of the federal Defend Trade Secrets Act (DTSA) and the Texas Uniform Trade Secrets Act (TUTSA).The amended complaint alleges that Solus Advanced Materials misappropriated and used trade secrets central to copper foil manufacturing processes, including additive recipes, electrolyte operating conditions, and drum management methods. These trade secrets represent core competitive strengths that SK Nexilis has developed through years of research and substantial investment.Accordingly, SK Nexilis has sought civil remedies, including an injunction to prohibit further use of its trade secrets, recovery of actual damages, restitution of unjust enrichment, and punitive damages. The company intends to thoroughly substantiate the relevant facts and damages through the judicial process.Shortly after filing the second amended complaint in the United States, SK Nexilis also initiated patent infringement litigation in Europe. The company determined that copper foil products sold in the European market by Solus Advanced Materials affiliates infringed its patent and accordingly filed two patent infringement injunction lawsuits with the Unified Patent Court (UPC).In this litigation, SK Nexilis is seeking a comprehensive injunction that would not only halt the manufacture, use, and sale of the infringing products, but also require the recall and destruction of products already distributed. The Unified Patent Court (UPC) has strong judicial authority, with the power to issue a single ruling effective across 17 member countries, including Germany and France, allowing for immediate remedial measures such as sales bans if patent infringement is established.In Korea, the validity of patents held by Solus Advanced Materials has also been reviewed by the Intellectual Property Trial and Appeal Board (IPTAB). On the 27th of this month, the IPTAB invalidated four patents owned by Solus Advanced Materials.Previously, one month after SK Nexilis filed its patent infringement lawsuit in the United States, Solus Advanced Materials initiated a countersuit in Korea, asserting six of its own patents against SK Nexilis. The recent invalidation ruling applies to four of those six patents, while the remaining two are still under review by the IPTAB.A representative of SK Nexilis stated, “We will do our utmost to clearly substantiate the facts in this litigation and ensure that our legitimate rights are protected. We also hope this case will serve as a reminder of the importance of safeguarding trade secrets, and that fair and ethical management will become the foundation for ensuring the sustainability of K-batteries in the global market.”Meanwhile, last year Solus Advanced Materials filed inter partes review (IPR) petitions with the U.S. Patent Trial and Appeal Board (PTAB) challenging five patents asserted by SK Nexilis. On July 2, all five petitions were ultimately dismissed, reaffirming the validity of SK Nexilis’ patents. [End]
2025-09-29
SK leaveo secures strategic investment from IFC to accelerate expansion of eco-friendly ecosystem
● Funds to be used for the completion and operation of reinforced polybutylene adipate terephthalate (PBAT) plant in Viet Nam● Project expected to strengthen global cooperation in circular economy and sustainable agriculture● IFC will also support implementation of Environmental and Social Management System SK leaveo, the biodegradable materials investment arm of SKC (CEO: Woncheol Park), has secured a strategic investment of USD 40 million (approximately KRW 55 billion) from the International Finance Corporation (IFC), a member of the World Bank Group and the largest global development institution focused on the private sector in emerging markets, to finance the construction of its biodegradable plastics plant in Viet Nam. On 7th, SKC announced that SK leaveo and IFC signed a strategic investment agreement, marking the start of a partnership to expand its global eco-friendly ecosystem. This investment is based on global confidence in SK leaveo’s PBAT business capabilities and growth potential. The funds will be used to complete and operate the Viet Nam production facility, which is scheduled for completion in the third quarter of this year. SK leaveo plans to produce 70,000 tons of reinforced PBAT annually, aiming for commercialization in the first half of 2026. IFC and SK leaveo will also continue to explore further opportunities to collaborate in areas including sustainable agriculture and materials, among others. In addition, following completion of the construction of the PBAT plant, IFC will work closely with SK leaveo to implement an Environmental and Social Management System aligned with international standards and continue to enhance its capabilities for responding to global regulatory requirements.A representative from SK leaveo stated, “This investment from IFC is a global recognition of the growth potential of SK leaveo’s proprietary technology, as well as a beginning of aligning SKC’s sustainable business strategy with the international community,” adding, “SK leaveo will continue to drive eco-friendly innovation across technology, production, and partnerships.”A representative from IFC said: “We are delighted to support SKC’s expansion in the sustainable materials sector and contribute to the growth of the biodegradable materials market, which plays a vital role in reducing plastic waste. Through this investment, IFC aims to support the development of the sustainable materials industry in emerging markets, help diversify the global supply chain for sustainable materials, improve sustainable agricultural infrastructure, and create local jobs in Viet Nam.”
2025-08-07
SKC Publishes its Sustainability Report 2025
● Published annually since 2020, sharing its achievements in ESG management● Enhanced stakeholder engagement by expanding participation in materiality assessments and introducing the IRO evaluation for the first time● Newly incorporates data from ISC and overseas operations, and highlights biodiversity conservation efforts On June 30, SKC (CEO Woncheol Park) published its Sustainability Report 2025 on its official website, outlining the company's ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) activities and performance. Since 2020, SKC has published an annual Sustainability Report to communicate with stakeholders both in Korea and abroad.This year's Sustainability Report was developed to align with increasingly sophisticated international disclosure standards, with a fucus on strengthening stakeholder communication and expanding the scope of disclosed data.In accordance with the EU's Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD), SKC conducted a Double Materiality Assessment, considering both environmental and social impacts alongside financial perspectives. Through this assessment, the company identified three key material issues: ① climate change response, ② waste and pollutant reduction, and ③ enhancement of industrial health and safety.To enable a more in-depth analysis of material issues, SKC significantly expanded its stakeholder engagement to include executives, outside directors, and business partners, gathering diverse insights and feedback. The company also introduced the IRO (Impact, Risk, Opportunity) evaluation for the first time, which assesses the magnitude, likelihood, and timing of impacts that the identified material issues may have on the environment, society, and the business.The scope of disclosed data has also been significantly expanded. This year's report incorporates data from ISC, which became a new investee in October 2023, as well as greenhouse gas emissions from overseas operations and information on biodiversity conservation activities carried out near local business sites.In particular, the report highlights biodiversity conservation efforts through the My Green Nature initiative, which was launched for the first time this year. SKC carried out My Green Nature activities in four regions — Seoul, Seongnam, Jeongeup, and Ulsan — focusing on ecosystem restoration and promoting the value of biodiversity.The use of artificial intelligence (AI) in the report’s production process is also noteworthy. SKC utilized AI for data verification, thereby reducing errors and improving production efficiency.An SKC representative stated, “Publishing our Sustainability Report is an important means of measuring and disclosing ESG performance, while reaffirming our commitment to fulfilling our responsibilities to both internal and external stakeholders.” The representative added, “Going forward, we will continue to transparently share our ESG efforts and performance and actively reflets stakeholder feedback in our business operations.” [End][The cover design of SKC’s Sustainability Report 2025
reflects the company’s commitment to advancing its key business growth while
upholding ESG values, including biodiversity conservation.]
2025-07-01
SKC Promotes Biodiversity Conservation Through Urban Forest Activities for Children on Namsan
● Rolled out its My Green Nature initiative near the SK-C Tower in Chungmuro, adjacent to Namsan● Carried out forest care activities in the Namsan Children's Forest, including planting native species to restore the urban ecosystem● Leading biodiversity conservation initiatives at investee company sites nationwide, helping to spread an eco-friendly culture On June 27, SKC (CEO: Woncheol Park) carried out its “My Green Nature” activities on Namsan Mountain in Seoul to promote biodiversity conservation. Building on its ecological restoration efforts earlier this year in Seongnam, Jeongeup, and Ulsan, SKC conducted sapling planting and environmental clean-up activities on Namsan, near its recently relocated headquarters in Chungmuro.The event was attended by SKC Chairperson of the Board Chae Eun-mi and other SKC members, who took part in ecosystem restoration activities. In particular, the initiative focused on planting native species to enhance biodiversity and strengthen the ecological role of the urban forest.Participants removed existing non-native plants from the Namsan Children's Forest and planted native species such as Korean bellflowers and Hosta 'Golden Tiara’, which contribute to biodiversity conservation. By personally planting and tending the saplings, participants experienced the importance of ecological restoration firsthand and gained a renewed appreciation for the value of nature in urban settings.SKC has continued its My Green Nature initiatives at major business sites across the country. In April, May, and June, the company conducted water purification and non-native species removal at Tancheon Stream in Seongnam, Naejangsan National Park in Jeongeup, and Seonbawi Park in Ulsan, respectively.Meanwhile, on May 26, SKC relocated its headquarters from its Gwanghwamun office to the SK-C Tower at 15 Chungmuro, Jung-gu, Seoul, marking the beginning of its "Chungmuro era." With this move, SKC plans to accelerate its growth as a global ESG-focused materials solution provider.An SKC representative said, “This activity was especially meaningful as it coincided with our headquarters relocation and was held on Namsan — a major ecological hub and one of the most iconic green spaces in Seoul.” The representative added, “SKC will continue working to create a sustainable future in harmony with nature.” [End][SKC
Chairperson of the Board Chae Eun-mi (center) takes part in planting native
species in the Namsan Children’s Forest.]
2025-06-27
SKC Launches Ecosystem Conservation Activities Near Ulsan SK picglobal Facility
● SK picglobal’s Ulsan facility hosted the third My Green Nature campaign of the year● Activities include the removal of invasive plant species near Seonbawi Park in Ulsan to help preserve migratory bird habitats● Biodiversity conservation efforts are being carried out nationwide across SKC’s investee company sites, contributing to the spread of an eco-friendly culture SKC (CEO: Woncheol Park) launched its third My Green Nature campaign of the year in Ulsan, home to SK picglobal’s facility. My Green Nature is a corporate social responsibility program that SKC has prioritized this year to raise awareness of biodiversity and the importance of restoring healthy ecosystems. On June 24, SKC announced that it had conducted an invasive plant removal activity at Seonbawi Park in Ulsan the previous day, as part of efforts to protect migratory bird habitats. The event was attended by Choi Doo-hwan, CEO of SK picglobal, along with employees from both SKC and SK picglobal. Participants removed invasive plants such as wild cucumber vine (Sicyos angulatus) and kudzu, which hinder the growth of native plants within Seonbawi Park. They also explored the park with a nature interpreter, observing plants, insects, and birds to deepen their understanding of ecosystem conservation. Earlier, SKC carried out My Green Nature activities in April and May at Tancheon Stream in Seongnam, Gyeonggi Province, and Naejangsan National Park in Jeongeup, Jeollabuk-do Province, respectively. In April, the company conducted water purification and plogging — a combination of picking up litter while jogging — along Tancheon Stream near the ISC headquarters in Seongnam. In May, SKC organized the capture of invasive fish species at Naejangsan National Park, where SK nexilis operates a facility in Jeongeup. An SKC representative said, “Through our employee-participation-based My Green Nature program, we have come to appreciate that small actions can mark the first step toward ecosystem restorations.” They added, “We will continue working closely with local communities and expanding participatory programs that help integrate eco-friendly values into everyday life.” [End][SKC and SK picglobal employees carried out biodiversity conservation activities
at Seonbawi Park in Ulsan.]
[Choi Doo-hwan (left), CEO of SK picglobal, takes part in removing
invasive plants with team members.]
2025-06-23
SK nexilis Secures KRW 150 Billion Investment from Toyota Tsusho, Strategic Partnership Strengthened
● Signed investment agreement signed on the 18th, involving a partial equity transfer of its Malaysian subsidiary● Enhanced synergy expected with the Toyota Group, including collaboration in copper foil raw material sourcing and next-generation battery development● Laying the foundation for stable operations at the Malaysian plant; accelerating stabilization of global production bases SK nexilis, a subsidiary of SKC (CEO: Woncheol Park) specializing in copper foil for secondary batteries, has successfully secured an investment of approximately KRW 150 billion from Japan’s Toyota Tsusho Corporation.On the 18th, SKC announced that it had signed an investment agreement at its headquarters in Jongno-gu, Seoul, under which a portion of shares in SK nexilis’ Malaysian subsidiary would be transferred to Toyota Tsusho. The transaction involves an investment of approximately USD 110 million (KRW 150 billion). Toyota Tsusho, a general trading company under the Toyota Group, engages in the procurement of materials and components for a wide range of products, including automobiles, and operates a global logistics network.This investment is expected to strengthen the strategic partnership between the two companies. Through its collaboration with Toyota Tsusho, SK nexilis is laying the groundwork for stable operations in its Malaysian plant and working together to expand its global customer base.Notably, Toyota Tsusho is currently constructing a large-scale battery plant in the United States with Toyota Motor Corporation, and is reportedly looking forward to broader collaboration with SK nexilis in the future. The partnership is also expected to generate synergies through joint marketing initiatives leveraging Toyota Tsusho’s extensive business network. At the same time, Toyota Tsusho has secured a stable procurement channel for copper foil, a key material for batteries.The two companies have also agreed to collaborate on the supply of core raw materials. SK nexilis anticipates a more stable supply of copper foil raw materials by leveraging Toyota Tsusho’s capabilities in the battery materials sector. In addition, SK nexilis intends to collaborate with Toyota Tsusho on the development of next-generation batteries, leveraging its capabilities in advanced current collector technologies.This collaboration marks a pivotal step as SK nexilis accelerates efforts to stabilize its global production bases this year. Its Malaysian plant has secured mid- to long-term supply stability through long-term contracts with major customers, while the Polish plant is being prepared to respond swiftly to the recovering demand in Europe.An SK nexilis official stated, “The strategic collaboration between SK nexilis, equipped with world-leading copper foil manufacturing technology, and Toyota Tsusho, with its competitive edge in raw material distribution, will serve as a powerful driver to enhance both companies’ competitiveness in the global electric vehicle market.” They added, “As economic cooperation between Korea and Japan gains greater importance, we hope this investment agreement will mark the beginning of a sustainable and trust-based partnership.” [End][SKC President Woncheol Park (right) poses for a commemorative photo
with Toyota Tsusho President Toshimitsu Imai.][Kwang-min Ryu (right), CEO of SK nexilis, signs the investment agreement
with Akihiro Sako (left), CEO of the Circular Economy Division at Toyota
Tsusho.]
2025-06-18
SKC Earns International ISO 37301 Certification for Compliance Management
● SKC held a certification ceremony on June 4 at its Chungmuro headquarters, officially recognizing its internal control system as meeting global standards● Following its ISO 37001 certification, SKC has now earned ISO 37301—marking a major step forward in its ethical and compliance management framework● Plans are underway to enhance compliance management through dedicated teams and newly formed consultative bodies SKC (CEO Woncheol Park) announced on June 4 that it has obtained ISO 37301, the international standard for compliance management systems, from the Korea Management Registrar (KMR).A certification ceremony was held the same day at SKC’s headquarters in Chungmuro, Seoul, attended by Kim Yoon-hoe, Head of Compliance at SKC, and Hwang Eun-ju, CEO of KMR, the ISO certification body. ISO 37301 is an international certification granted to organizations with globally recognized compliance systems, based on an evaluation of their internal controls, ethics, and compliance culture.SKC previously received ISO 37001 certification, the international standard for anti-bribery management systems, in 2023. The newly acquired ISO 37301 certification reflects the company’s continued efforts to advance its ethical and compliance system.In line with SK Group’s vision of achieving globally competitive management standards, SKC has designated key organizations as compliance priorities and identified the relevant laws and regulations applicable to each unit. The company has also revised major policies and operational manuals to strengthen its compliance control environment.Looking ahead, SKC plans to enhance its compliance management system through the establishment of dedicated teams and new consultative bodies. The company also plans to expand training programs on key areas such as fair trade to enhance employee awareness.An SKC representative stated, “This compliance management certification provides a solid foundation for strengthening our compliance practices in the long term,” adding, “We will continue to uphold fair and transparent management practices as we strive to become a more trusted company.”
2025-06-04
SKC Carries Out Biodiversity Conservation Activities at Naejangsan National Park
● Second My Green Nature campaign of the year held in Jeongeup, Jeonbuk, home to the SK Nexilis site● Expanded to include bluegill removal—an invasive species in the Naejang Lake ecosystem—alongside a family participation program● Expanded to locations across the country where SKC’s portfolio companies operate, including Ulsan, helping to promote a culture of environmental sustainabilitySKC (CEO Woncheol Park) has launched a biodiversity conservation initiative at Naejangsan National Park as part of its ongoing My Green Nature corporate social responsibility (CSR) program.On May 28, SKC carried out a bluegill removal campaign at Naejang Lake in Jeongeup, Jeollabuk-do. Bluegill are an invasive species that disrupt the local ecosystem. My Green Nature is an environmental program focused on ecological restoration in areas where SKC operates. It aims to raise awareness about the value of biodiversity and the importance of restoring healthy ecosystems.The event was attended by SK Nexilis CEO Ryu Gwang-min, Naejangsan National Park Office Director Han Kyung-dong, and employees from both SKC and SK Nexilis. Participants helped protect the aquatic ecosystem by removing bluegill from the lake. The collected fish were donated for use as ingredients in pet food.This edition of My Green Nature also welcomed participation from employees' families. Parents and children explored the Naejangsan Ecological Park together and took part in the bluegill removal activity, offering a hands-on opportunity to learn about the importance of biodiversity preservation. On April 25, SKC and ISC employees conducted a water quality improvement campaign at Tancheon Stream in Seongnam, which included plogging activities to clean the surrounding area. SKC plans to expand its biodiversity conservation efforts to other local communities where its portfolio companies are based, including Ulsan.An SKC official said, “Through My Green Nature, which brings together employees and their families, we’ve created an opportunity to experience the value of environmental sustainability firsthand. We will continue to promote participatory programs that naturally integrate eco-friendly practices into daily life.”
2025-05-28
SKC Launches Eco Education for Elementary Students at Naejangsan National Park
● My Green School 2025 kicks off with hands-on lessons for Jeongeup Elementary students● Teaches proper recycling using SKC’s My Green Place app● Program to reach 160+ students by mid-June; new family-oriented version launched SKC (CEO Woncheol Park) has launched an experiential environmental education program for elementary students in partnership with Naejangsan National Park, aimed at fostering eco-conscious values in the next generation.On May 21, SKC held the first My Green School event of the year at Naejangsan National Park in Jeongeup, Jeollabuk-do, with students from Jeongeup Elementary School. Launched in 2022, My Green School is part of SKC’s CSR efforts, run jointly with its portfolio companies to educate elementary students living near their business sites on proper waste sorting and recycling practices.This year’s program has been expanded into an outdoor, experience-based learning through a new partnership with Naejangsan National Park. Held at the park’s Maple Ecology Garden, the program integrates forest exploration with interactive lessons highlighting the importance of proper waste separation.The program also includes practical training using My Green Place, a plastic recycling information app SKC launched in 2022. Students scanned barcodes on plastic products with the app to learn how to properly sort and dispose of each item. SKC plans to hold four sessions of the My Green School program at Naejangsan National Park by mid-June, reaching around 160 students. In addition, the company is launching a new initiative called My Green Life, which will invite employees’ children to its headquarters and regional business sites for environmental education—developing the program into a more family-oriented experience.An SKC official said, “We hope this program helps younger generations understand the importance of environmental protection. We remain committed to expanding our CSR initiatives to spread environmental awareness and help build a more sustainable future.”
2025-05-21
SKC Honors Korea’s Patriots with Cemetery Clean-Up Ahead of Memorial Day
● SKC and ISC employees carry out grave maintenance and flag placement at Seoul National Cemetery● Volunteer program marks 18th consecutive year since 2008, now expanded to include portfolio companies● Upcoming move to Chungmuro HQ to serve as a springboard for expanded CSR at local business sites SKC (CEO Woncheol Park) announced that on May 20, ahead of Korea’s 70th Memorial Day, the company held a volunteer event at Seoul National Cemetery to honor the nation’s fallen heroes through grave maintenance and flag placement activities.Employee volunteers from SKC and ISC—a semiconductor test socket company in which SKC has invested—gathered to pay their respects at the Memorial Tower, observing a moment of silence for the nation’s patriots. The team then visited Section 19, where 913 soldiers and service members are laid to rest, to place national flags, offer floral tributes, and clean the surrounding area.Since establishing its volunteer corps in 2004, SKC has maintained a sisterhood partnership with Seoul National Cemetery since 2008, regularly conducting floral tribute and clean-up activities for the past 18 years. SKC will continue to broaden its CSR efforts, including joint volunteer programs at Seoul National Cemetery with its portfolio companies.An SKC official said, “This volunteer activity at the Seoul National Cemetery was a meaningful opportunity to honor the noble sacrifices of those who gave their lives for the country. We remain committed to fulfilling our responsibilities as a socially responsible company.” The official added, “With the upcoming relocation to our new headquarters in Chungmuro at the end of this month, we plan to carry out various local initiatives—focusing on biodiversity conservation—in the areas where SKC and its portfolio companies operate.”SKC is set to relocate from its Gwanghwamun headquarters, where it has been based since 2017, to the SK-C Tower at 15 Chungmuro, Jung-gu, Seoul, on May 26. SKC plans to use the start of its new "Chungmuro era" as a turning point to accelerate its growth as a global ESG materials solutions provider.
2025-05-20