起点锂电·2025-08-25 10:24Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the challenges faced by South Korean battery manufacturers, particularly in the context of increasing competition from Chinese companies like CATL and BYD, leading to significant financial losses and a strategic shift towards lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries [4][6][10]. Group 1: Industry Challenges - In 2020, South Korean battery manufacturers had a strong market presence, with LG Chem holding nearly 30% of the global market share [6]. - By 2023, the market share of South Korean battery manufacturers has significantly declined due to the rise of Chinese competitors, resulting in substantial financial losses for companies like LG Energy, SK On, and Samsung SDI [6][8]. - The financial reports for Q4 2023 revealed losses of 2.255 trillion KRW (approximately 10 billion RMB) for LG Energy, 3.594 trillion KRW for SK On, and 2.683 trillion KRW for Samsung SDI, indicating a severe downturn in profitability [6]. Group 2: Strategic Shifts - In response to market pressures, South Korean battery manufacturers are pivoting towards LFP battery technology, with LG Energy and SK On announcing plans to transition their production lines [10]. - The South Korean government is launching a support plan worth 45.8 trillion KRW (approximately 2.349 billion RMB) to bolster the battery, semiconductor, and critical mineral industries, including 600 billion KRW specifically for small and medium-sized enterprises in materials and components [10]. Group 3: Automotive Sector Developments - Hyundai and Kia are attempting to regain market share in China, with Kia reporting a 13% year-on-year increase in sales in the first half of 2023, attributed to its electric vehicle strategy [12][13]. - Hyundai plans to launch 21 electric vehicle models by 2030 and is also focusing on solid-state battery technology, with ongoing research projects related to lithium metal and solid-state batteries [13][14].