TSMC(US:TSM) Xin Lang Cai Jing·2025-12-03 02:22Core Viewpoint - TSMC is involved in a significant technology leak case where a former engineer and two current employees are accused of stealing 2nm process technology and leaking it to a competitor, resulting in legal actions and fines against Tokyo Electron [1][3]. Group 1: Incident Overview - A former engineer, Chen Liming, colluded with two TSMC engineers, Ge Yiping and Wu Bingjun, to steal confidential 2nm process technology [1][2]. - The incident was discovered by TSMC in July 2023, leading to the company filing a complaint with the Taiwan High Prosecutors Office [2][4]. - The three individuals involved have been charged with multiple offenses under Taiwan's Security Law and Trade Secrets Law, with fines sought against Tokyo Electron totaling NT$120 million (approximately US$4 million) [1][3]. Group 2: Background of the Individuals - Chen Liming had an 8-year tenure at TSMC and was involved in advanced process defect improvement roles, including 5nm and 3nm technologies [2][4]. - After leaving TSMC, Chen was recruited by Tokyo Electron as a senior marketing specialist, where he sought assistance from current TSMC employees to access internal systems remotely [2][4]. - All three engineers involved graduated from the same university and had a senior-junior relationship, indicating a close connection among them [2][4]. Group 3: Legal Proceedings - The High Prosecutors Office concluded its investigation on December 2, 2023, and has requested severe penalties for the accused, with Chen facing a combined sentence of 14 years, Wu 9 years, and Ge 7 years [2][4]. - The three engineers were remanded for further investigation, with a decision made to extend their detention for three months [2][4].