Samsung Chip Executive Detained Over Alleged Technology Leak to China as Espionage Case Deepens

A former Samsung executive was arrested Thursday in South Korea on new charges related to the alleged theft of semiconductor technology. Authorities fear the executive, linked to a Chinese chip company, may attempt to flee before the industrial espionage trial concludes.

South Korea Faces New Espionage Allegations

A court official and the executive's lawyer announced Friday that a South Korean executive was detained once again on new charges pertaining to the theft of chip processing technology, following earlier accusations of stealing semiconductor secrets created by Samsung Electronics.

An anonymous court official told Reuters that Choi Jinseog was detained on Thursday by the Seoul Central District Court for fears that he could flee, although the official did not elaborate.

Choi’s Espionage Trial Continues Since July

A prominent industrial espionage trial has been ongoing since July 2023, following Choi's arrest and subsequent release on bond. Choi was a former executive of Samsung who oversaw a chipmaking company in China. Such accusations have been denied by him.

According to Choi's lawyer, Kim Pilsung, who spoke to Reuters, additional accusations have surfaced that allege he stole secrets about processing 20-nanometer DRAM chips from Samsung.

Legal Representatives Dismiss Charges

His client has denied any wrongdoing, according to Kim, and the material that he is suspected of stealing is available to the public.

As far as his attorney is aware, Choi has not been indicted in connection with the new charges.

Samsung declined to comment on the matter.

South Korea Strengthens Efforts Against Espionage

Choi was indicted in June 2023, accused of attempting to construct a counterfeit chip plant in China using confidential knowledge created by Samsung. This case highlights South Korea's attempts to curb industrial espionage and limit China's advancements in chip production.

The engineer who has won multiple awards was formerly considered a prominent figure in the semiconductor business in South Korea, as revealed by US News.

In April, after being released on bond, Choi informed Reuters that he and an ex-employee of Samsung were being investigated by the authorities for new charges pertaining to Samsung's chip manufacturing technology.