메인으로

Nepes Successfully Completes Introductory Training for 2025 Recruitment-Linked Interns

Nepes announced that it successfully completed its introductory training program for recruitment-linked interns, held from November 3 to 7. A total of 21 interns participated in the program, beginning their journey to become future core talents across all departments of the Semiconductor Business Division.The training was systematically designed and executed with the goals of embedding organizational vision and core values, strengthening AI-driven practical skills, and building understanding of key job roles. In particular, the program was structured around three pillars: Organizational Fit × AI-Driven × Skill-Up, enabling interns to quickly adapt to Nepes’ culture and acquire essential competencies for on-the-job success.The curriculum included: Understanding Nepes’ corporate culture and vision Learning AI and semiconductor industry trends Mandatory environmental and safety training Core job academies (Technology, Quality, Integrated Operations Management) Following this, interns will undergo a three-week advanced job academy to further enhance their practical application skills.Participants expressed high satisfaction with the program, demonstrating strong engagement and proactive communication. Many developed concrete action plans for applying their learning to real work scenarios, laying the foundation for future conversion to full-time positions. A Nepes representative stated: “This introductory training was more than just knowledge transfer—it provided a meaningful foundation for interns to grow as integral members of Nepes’ future. We will continue to actively support their smooth integration and capability development within the company.”[Request to add press release distribution list]

2025-11-19

Nepes Wins Grand Prize in AI Education Innovation at Korea AI Innovation Awards 2025

Leading the Education Ecosystem Through AI-Based Public Education Innovation and Digital InclusionNepes received the Grand Prize in AI Education Innovation at the 2025 Korea AI Innovation Awards held on November 10. This event is a leading AI awards ceremony in Korea, organized by the Korea AI Innovation Awards Committee, co-hosted by the International Future Society, ET News, the National Assembly Future Policy Research Association, and the Korea AI Forum, and supported by major government ministries including the Ministry of Science and ICT and the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy. Under the theme of “K-AI Humanism and Innovation,” the awards recognize companies and institutions that have contributed to industrial innovation and the realization of social value through AI technology.For more than a decade, Nepes has spearheaded educational innovation by integrating AI and digital technologies, contributing to the development of Korea’s AI education ecosystem based on a human-centered educational philosophy.Since 2013, Nepes has provided AI education to over 120,000 students and teachers annually through initiatives such as: Development of AI educational products and content Research on human-AI collaborative learning models Execution of government public education projects AI education programs for underserved communities In particular, Nepes partnered with tech company IoTed to develop “AI Geumjjogi,” a ChatGPT-powered voice-recognition AI educational speaker that helps elementary and special-needs students enhance problem-solving skills. The company also collaborated with Seoul National University to academically validate and conduct pilot studies on human-AI collaborative learning models.Furthermore, Nepes promotes personalized learning through a generative AI-based learning platform and operates “CocoaFab School,” a teacher community with over 5,600 active educators, driving digital transformation in classrooms.Beyond public education innovation, Nepes develops AI ethics education content, runs the “Digital Hero” project-based learning program focused on solving social issues, and engages in CSR activities to support marginalized groups such as students in remote areas and multicultural families—fulfilling its commitment to public value and social responsibility.A Nepes representative stated: “As a semiconductor packaging innovation company that turns an AI-driven future into reality, we will continue to lead efforts to create a better society through AI technology in education.” This award recognizes Nepes’ contributions beyond technological innovation—addressing educational gaps, promoting digital inclusion, and advancing ethical AI practices as part of its social value mission.[Request to add press release distribution list]

2025-11-19

Nepes Presents Next-Generation AI Semiconductor Packaging Technology at ISMP 2025

Nepes successfully delivered a presentation titled “Fan-Out Embedded Bridge Interposer for Scalable Heterogeneous Integration of NPUs and HBMs” at ISMP 2025 (23rd International Symposium on Microelectronics and Packaging), held from November 4 to 7 at the Inter-Burgo Hotel in Daegu.The presentation showcased Nepes’ achievements in developing fan-out-based bridge interposer technology for heterogeneous integration of AI processors and high-bandwidth memory (HBM). Attendees praised the session for offering practical solutions to achieve high-density, high-speed, and low-power packaging.ISMP 2025 is an international symposium spotlighting advanced packaging technologies such as 3D/2.5D integration, chiplet-based design, hybrid bonding, and UCIe interfaces. This year, numerous sessions focused on AI semiconductors and next-generation memory integration. Leading global semiconductor companies—including Intel, Samsung Electronics, SK hynix, Lam Research, Tokyo Electron, PulseForge, and Samsung Electro-Mechanics—participated as presenters, alongside academic experts from UCLA, USC, and KAIST, fostering active technical exchange and collaboration.Through this presentation, Nepes emphasized the design flexibility advantages of its proprietary Fan-Out Embedded Bridge Interposer technology and highlighted its potential applications in high-performance domains such as AI servers, edge computing, and autonomous vehicles.Jungwon Lee, Director of Nepes Semiconductor Research Center and presenter of the session, stated:“Our ISMP 2025 presentation was an opportunity to demonstrate Nepes’ efforts not only in RDL interposer development but also in securing Fan-Out Embedded Bridge Interposer technology. We will continue to lead innovation in AI semiconductor packaging as a representative of Korean companies.”[Request to add press release distribution list]

2025-11-19

Nepes Wins Excellence Award at Korea Coaching Festival 2025

Driving People-Centered Organizational Culture Innovation… Recognized for Spreading Coaching Culture to Manufacturing SitesNepes received the 2025 Excellence Award for Coaching Culture Expansion at the 22nd Korea Coaching Festival, held on October 31 at COEX in Seoul. This award, presented annually by the Korea Coach Association, honors organizations that contribute to the spread of coaching-based organizational culture. Nepes was highly evaluated for practicing coaching leadership based on its people-centered management philosophy and the GRACE model.As a mid-sized company located in Cheongju, Chungbuk, Nepes has drawn attention for its strong execution in spreading coaching culture within the industry through field-oriented training programs. Since December 2024, more than 10% of all employees have participated in on-site coaching education, with 130 employees completing the program so far and over 160 expected by year-end. Among them, 19 have earned KAC certification and 2 hold KPC credentials, demonstrating a commitment to embedding coaching leadership beyond simple training through official certification.Additionally, Nepes collaborates with professional coaches to run the “Coach the Coach” program, fostering a self-sustaining coaching ecosystem in regional industrial sites. Between 2024 and 2025, a total of 60 participants engaged in the program, working with 22 professional coaches to conduct over 200 coaching sessions—creating a culture where coaching is practiced in everyday work.Nepes’ organizational culture is built on the GRACE model (Growth, Respect, Assistance, Conditions, Empathy), with a particular focus on Empathy. The company supports all members of its Empathy organization in obtaining KAC certification, enabling psychological safety and deep communication. These members are responsible for counseling, listening, and care, effectively implementing the company’s people-centered management philosophy.The impact of this coaching culture is evident in measurable improvements in organizational engagement and leadership capability. For example, the “Communication” score rose from 4.41 in 2023 to 4.75 in 2024, “Supervisor Leadership” improved from 5.31 to 5.56, and “Coaching Feedback” continues to show steady progress.The event featured a keynote speech by Professor Dae-Shik Kim of KAIST and a special lecture by Dr. Carlos Davidovich from Harvard Medical School’s affiliated Coaching Institute, along with case studies in education, HR, youth, and life coaching. Nepes demonstrated its philosophy of prioritizing human growth and connection even in technology-driven industries, presenting a sustainable organizational growth model through coaching.Nepes’ award representative, Lee Sang-ho, Head of Management Support, stated:“Even in the AI era, a people-centered organizational culture is the core of competitiveness. This award is a recognition of Nepes’ philosophy of respecting people.”Meanwhile, this year’s Excellence Award for Coaching Culture Expansion was granted to 21 organizations, including Nepes, HD Hyundai Group, KT Cloud, KakaoBank, and Hanwha Aerospace.[Request to add press release distribution list]

2025-11-19

35 Years of Walking Together, 100 Years of Leaping Forward: Nepes Declares Its Future Management Vis

To mark its 35th anniversary, Nepes held a commemorative event with employees at the Cheongju 2 Campus Atrium, reflecting on its journey over the past 35 years and sharing its management philosophy and vision for the next 100 years.Chairman Byung-Koo Lee delivered a keynote message under the theme “35 Years of Walking Together, 100 Years of Walking Forward Together,” presenting three core principles for future management: Mission-driven growth Spiritual management to achieve vision Strengthening competitiveness through collective intelligence Chairman Lee stated, “Over the past 35 years, Nepes has achieved remarkable growth by continuously innovating and developing technologies tailored to the needs of domestic semiconductor customers, delivering them in a timely manner.” He emphasized that this growth was not merely technology-driven, but the result of realizing customer-centered value.He further added, “Moving forward, a culture of horizontal communication, collaboration, respect for diversity, and a fearless spirit of experimentation—where we think together, decide together, and take responsibility together—will be the driving force that leads Nepes to become a centennial company.” In addition, the event served as a platform to reinforce the company’s commitment to combining community spirit with AI-driven strategic execution. Under the 2026 slogan “All hands on the AI Core,” Nepes announced its plan for all employees to unite their efforts in proactively responding to the evolving industrial landscape.[Request to add press release distribution list]

2025-10-24

Nepes Presents Growth Strategy for Mid-Sized OSAT Companies at Semiconductor Packaging Policy Forum

Nepes participated in the Semiconductor Packaging Policy Forum held on September 25 at the SC Convention Center in Seoul, where CTO Jongheon Kim delivered a keynote presentation titled “Growth Strategy for Mid-Sized OSAT Companies and Industry-Academia-Government Collaboration.”In his presentation, Mr. Kim addressed the limitations of 2.5D packaging (CoWoS), a core technology in the AI semiconductor market, and stated, “In the future, packaging technologies that replace expensive silicon interposers and shift to square panel formats will gain attention.” He added, “The industry is already discussing 3.5D packaging technologies that incorporate vertical stacking, and companies that secure next-generation technologies and build robust supply chains will lead the market.”Mr. Kim also outlined strategic directions for enhancing the competitiveness of mid-sized OSAT companies, including:Customer-driven technology development,Proactive supply chain establishment, andTimely response to advanced packaging technologies.Furthermore, he emphasized the need for government policy support and increased investment to help mid-sized OSAT companies strengthen their technological capabilities. In particular, he highlighted the importance of public sector involvement in the commercialization of advanced packaging technologies and the establishment of evaluation infrastructure for materials and equipment.The forum, hosted by the Korean Microelectronics and Packaging Society (KMEPS), brought together experts from industry, academia, and research institutions to discuss the future of advanced packaging and policy directions. Through this presentation, Nepes reaffirmed its leadership in the industry by offering practical insights into growth strategies and ecosystem collaboration for mid-sized OSAT companies.Related Article: [Semiconductor Packaging Policy Forum] Industry Says “Paradigm Shift Requires New Technology and Market Strategies” – ETNews

2025-09-26

Nepes Expects Turnaround Driven by Demand for AI Server-Used Power Semiconductors - Daishin Securiti

- Based on 2024 sales (KRW 460 billion), semiconductors accounted for 71%, electronic materials 17%, and rechargeable batteries 11%.- The semiconductor division primarily derives revenue from WLP (Wafer Paper Packaging), a high-value-added packaging product.- While the company is the only company in Korea capable of mass-producing FOPLP packaging, it was classified as a discontinued business in 2024 due to significant losses, aiming to stabilize its financial structure.- The upstream market for its core business, WLP, is expanding from smartphones to AI servers. In April 2025, the company decided to expand its packaging line for AI semiconductors.- Sales of Cu plating solutions for electronic materials, HBM, are expected to continue to grow in 2025, and the rechargeable battery division is also expected to turn around with recovering lead tab performance.Source: "Turnaround Expected Driven by Demand for AI Server-Used Power Semiconductors"  Naver Pay Securities

2025-08-27

[Report] Nepes, a Key Material, Part, and Equipment Company, Returns to Korea…Fitting Up the Supply

The Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy announced on the 12th that Park Jeong-seong, Director of the Trade and Investment Office, visited the Cheongju plant of Nepes Co., Ltd., a semiconductor packaging manufacturer, to award certificates to companies returning to Korea. After hearing Nepes's investment plan, Director Park inspected the production site and the proposed investment site, listened to any challenges encountered during the repatriation process, and discussed government support measures for companies returning to Korea. Nepes is a comprehensive back-end foundry specializing in the complete supply chain for system semiconductors and possesses key strategic technologies for the material, part, and equipment sector. Nepes plans to expand its production facilities at the idle site of its Cheongju plant in North Chungcheong Province to expand its production capacity for domestic and international semiconductor companies. Amid accelerating global supply chain restructuring, the government is actively promoting the repatriation of cutting-edge and core supply chain companies to establish Korea as a global supply chain hub and stimulate domestic investment. Accordingly, Nepes' investment in the Cheongju plant is expected to contribute to the national economy by revitalizing the local economy through new jobs, expanding exports, and stabilizing the supply chain. Park Jeong-seong, Director of the Trade and Investment Office, emphasized, "The return of key materials, components, and equipment companies to Korea has significant economic benefits in terms of investment, employment, and exports, and is crucial for stabilizing the domestic supply chain." He added, "The return of leading companies like Nepes is particularly encouraging amidst intensifying global technological competition." He added, "The government plans to fully support the return of companies to Korea through institutional improvements." Inquiries: Overseas Investment Division, Investment Policy Bureau, Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy (044-203-4069) [Source] Korea Policy Briefing (www.korea.kr)

2025-06-13

Nepes Vice President Kim Jong-heon: "Advanced Packaging Must Leap Forward to a Government-Led O

Panel Remarks at Semiconductor Advanced Packaging Expert Forum… Emphasizes 300mm Testbed and Joint FAB Nepes, a system semiconductor company, has presented strategic directions for building a domestic advanced packaging industry ecosystem. At the Semiconductor Advanced Packaging Expert Forum held at the Lotte Hotel in Seoul on the 23rd, Nepes Vice President Kim Jong-heon emphasized, "We must turn our technological latecomer status into an advantage. We desperately need a government-led open innovation platform that can bring together the technologies and capabilities of the entire industry." Hosted by the National Nanotechnology Foundation (NNFC) and attended by approximately 30 experts from industry, academia, research, and government, the forum was designed to explore ways to secure advanced packaging infrastructure in response to the proliferation of AI and HPC. As the domestic and international semiconductor ecosystem shifts its focus from front-end processes to back-end technologies, the strategic importance of packaging technology has been highlighted. The discussion, attended by Vice President Kim, Hyundai Motor Securities, Amkor Korea, the Korea Electronics Technology Institute, and the Korea Fabless Industry Association, involved in-depth discussions on advanced packaging technology strategies, global infrastructure benchmarking, and the establishment of a public-private partnership model. Meanwhile, the government, under the leadership of the Ministry of Science and ICT, is promoting the "Semiconductor Advanced Packaging Infrastructure Construction Support Project," which aims to secure advanced packaging equipment and processes based on 300mm wafers by 2029 and operate them as an open platform.

2025-05-26

Nepes Selected as a Government-Organized "Innovation Premier 1000" Company

The "Innovation Premier 1000" program, jointly operated by 13 government ministries, including the Financial Services Commission, aims to identify small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) with innovative potential and growth potential and provide them with tailored financial and non-financial support through collaboration with policy finance institutions. A total of 509 companies were selected through collaboration between relevant ministries and policy finance institutions, and Nepes was included in the list under the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy's Semiconductor and Display Division. Nepes received excellent recognition for its advanced packaging technology, AI semiconductor capabilities, and its expansion of its global customer base. Meanwhile, the Innovation Premier Program plans to expand its support to 1,000 companies annually starting in 2026, and the companies selected in the first round will receive intensive policy support until the end of 2026.

2025-05-20

Nepes’ Oh Jun-sik Receives Commendation from Fire Commissioner on Firefighting Day

Recognized for Contributions to Fire Safety and Administrative AdvancementOh Jun-sik, a Star-level employee in the Utility Part of Nepes’ Environmental Safety Infrastructure Team, was honored with a commendation from the Fire Commissioner during the 63rd Firefighting Day ceremony held on November 6 at Cheongju Dongbu Fire Station.The event recognized firefighters, volunteer fire brigade members, and civilians who contributed to the development of fire administration and community safety throughout the year. Attendees included fire officials, volunteer brigades, and local organization representatives, reaffirming the vital role of fire services in public trust and safety. Oh Jun-sik was commended for his dedication to his duties and significant contributions as a fire safety manager.In his acceptance speech, Oh stated: “It is an honor to receive this meaningful commendation on Firefighting Day. I am grateful to everyone who has worked alongside me, and I will continue to fulfill my responsibilities as a fire safety manager to protect lives and property. Together with all team members, I will strive to make Nepes’ 2nd Campus an even safer workplace.” Nepes reaffirmed its commitment to prioritizing safety management as a core value and will continue efforts to build a safe workplace in collaboration with its employees.

2025-11-19

Nepes and Iridos Spread Warmth This Winter Through ‘Sharing Love and Warmth’ Initiative

Delivering Hope to Vulnerable Communities Amid Winter ColdNepes’ EM Business Division, together with Iridos, brought warmth and compassion to the local community through the “Sharing Love and Warmth” campaign on November 13.A total of 15 employees participated in the activity, personally delivering 3,000 coal briquettes, 80 boxes of instant noodles, and heating oil to households in need—sharing heartfelt support during the harsh winter season.This initiative was made even more meaningful through a ₩5 million donation raised via Nepes’ in-house giving program, “n-Share Seeds.” Employees expressed their feelings while carrying briquettes, saying: “It’s just a small gesture, but we feel fulfilled knowing we can help our neighbors enjoy a warmer winter.”A Nepes representative commented: “Fulfilling corporate social responsibility goes beyond simple donations—it’s about growing together with the local community. We will continue to spread hope and share warmth with more neighbors through ongoing volunteer activities.” This effort was more than material support; it was a heartfelt act of service powered by employees’ voluntary participation, leaving a deep impression on the community. The Nepes Nanumi Volunteer Club plans to continue realizing the value of “Togetherness” through diverse social contribution programs.[Request to add press release distribution list]

2025-11-19

Nepes Wins KBS President’s Award in the Human Sharing Category at the 2025 Korea Sharing Awards

Nepes received the KBS President’s Award in the Human Sharing category at the 2025 Korea Sharing Awards ceremony held on November 6 at the KBS New Building Public Hall in Yeouido, Seoul.The Korea Sharing Awards, jointly hosted by the Ministry of Health and Welfare, KBS, and the Community Chest of Korea, is the nation’s most prestigious event recognizing individuals and organizations that contribute to spreading a culture of sharing.Since its founding, Nepes has operated its electronic materials (EM) business in Eumseong and embraced co-growth with the local community as a core corporate value. Over the past 20 years, Nepes has collaborated with the Eumseong County Welfare Center for the Disabled to carry out 156 volunteer activities, including regular donations, holiday essentials support, housing improvements, cultural experiences, heating fuel assistance, and growth mentoring for children from families with disabilities. These efforts reflect the company’s commitment to sustained, employee-driven human sharing activities.This award recognizes Nepes’ dedication to making social responsibility a core corporate value, going beyond technological innovation. The company’s authentic efforts to create tangible change in partnership with the local community were key to winning in the Human Sharing category.Under its 2026 slogan, “All Hands on the AI Core,” Nepes plans to continue fostering a corporate culture of sharing and mutual growth while equipping all employees with AI-driven capabilities to execute strategies in the field.Representing Nepes at the ceremony, Ji-Hyun Bang, Manager of the EM Business Division, shared: “It is deeply meaningful that an activity that began with a small intention has grown into a company-wide volunteer movement driven by employees’ voluntary participation. We will continue to create real change together with the local community.”Jung-Young Lee, Head of the EM Business Division, added: “Practicing sharing is more than fulfilling corporate social responsibility—it is the path to collective growth. We will actively support more employees in joining these initiatives.”Nepes plans to use this award as a springboard to expand the scope of its sharing activities and strengthen its position as a leading example of corporate social responsibility. The 2025 Korea Sharing Awards ceremony will be broadcast on KBS 1TV on Saturday, November 22, at 3:15 PM.[Request to add press release distribution list]

2025-11-19

Nepes Ark Holds Local Specialty Donation Ceremony in Goesan’s Cheongan Township – Promoting Regional

On September 26, 2025, Nepes Ark held a donation ceremony at the Cheongan Township Office in Goesan County, Chungcheongbuk-do, presenting gift sets of local specialty honey. This meaningful initiative reflects the company’s ongoing commitment to regional coexistence and was organized to support vulnerable groups in Goesan during the holiday season, while simultaneously promoting ESG management and revitalizing the local economy.The ceremony took place at the Cheongan Township Office and was attended by officials from the Goesan County Welfare Division, the Cheongan Township Office, representatives from Honeybee Land (the local honey producer), and members of Nepes Ark and the Nepes Culture Team. The event served as a reminder of the importance of regional collaboration.Nepes Ark has been providing regular annual support to Goesan County amounting to approximately KRW 14 million. Starting this holiday season, the company has expanded its efforts by donating gift sets made from local specialties. The donated honey sets are high-quality products produced by Honeybee Land, a local business and a representative of Goesan’s specialty goods.In addition, Nepes Ark selected the same honey sets as holiday gifts for its employees, reinforcing its connection with the region and making a tangible contribution to the local economy.A Nepes Ark representative stated, “Engaging in ESG activities alongside the local community is one of Nepes Ark’s core values. This donation further strengthens our ongoing partnership with Goesan County.” Nepes Ark plans to continue expanding its collaboration with Goesan County and will actively pursue ESG management that grows together with the local community.

2025-09-26

nepes yahad and LG Energy Solution Collaborate with Cheongju City to Improve Living Conditions for H

On Tuesday, September 16, nepes yahad joined forces with LG Energy Solution and Cheongju City to carry out a volunteer initiative aimed at improving the living conditions of a household suspected of hoarding behavior in Sangdang-gu, Cheongju. This collaborative effort was part of a broader ESG initiative to support vulnerable members of the community and promote sustainable practices.A total of 15 employees from nepes yahad and LG Energy Solution participated in the activity, which involved clearing out waste paper, scrap materials, and long-accumulated items from the apartment’s entrance, hallway, and interior. The household, occupied by an elderly individual living alone, had been suffering from severe sanitation issues due to years of hoarding, posing health risks not only to the resident but also to neighboring households.This volunteer effort aimed to restore a safe and healthy living environment for the resident, while also contributing to waste reduction and resource circulation through systematic sorting and disposal. It served as a meaningful example of ESG-driven community engagement and demonstrated the power of public-private collaboration in addressing local social challenges.nepes yahad remains committed to ESG values and will continue to engage in meaningful social contribution activities in collaboration with customers and local communities.

2025-09-18

Nepes Successfully Concludes Life-Sharing Blood Donation Campaign… Practicing Life-Sharing with the

Nepes successfully concluded its Life-Sharing Blood Donation Campaign with the voluntary participation of its employees. On the 22nd, the Empathy 2 Division of the Nepes Management Support Office, in cooperation with the Korean Occupational Health Association's Hanmaeum Blood Center, invited a blood donation vehicle to the Cheongan Campus and held a blood donation campaign for employees. A total of 34 employees signed up for the campaign, which was designed to facilitate participation even during busy work hours. Of these, 27 successfully donated blood, embodying the value of life-sharing. Employees from various departments at the Cheongan plant, including Nepes Ark, Nepes Yahad, Nepes Laweh, and the EM Research Center, voluntarily participated in this campaign. Staff from the Security Building, the Catering Department, and the Environmental Sanitation Team also participated, fostering a warm corporate culture. The active promotion and support of the Nepes Ark Environmental Safety Team and the Cheongan EM BU Business Management Team were particularly instrumental in the campaign's success. One employee who participated in the event said, "I was happy to participate, knowing that even small actions can save someone's life." He added, "I hope this meaningful activity continues in the future." Coach Kim Jeong-du of Empathy 2 said, "I deeply appreciate the cooperation of each business unit and the support of the executives. We plan to continue various social contribution activities to foster a healthy culture of sharing with the local community." He added, "We will create a warm organizational culture that fulfills our corporate social responsibility." This blood donation campaign is recognized as a meaningful event that demonstrates Nepes's sense of social responsibility and the spirit of sharing among its employees.

2025-08-25

Rua Orchestra, Drawing the Light of Life's Musical Score - Chungcheong Review

- 19 people with developmental disabilities work at a subsidiary of Nepes, a standard workplace for the disabled. - Four hours of individual practice and ensemble practice every day... Over 80 performances last year drew attention. - Director Kim Nam-jin: "I feel rewarded by seeing the growth and potential of the members every day."Rua Orchestra’s practice room in Naedeok-dong, Cheongwon-gu, Cheongju City. / Reporter Jo Eun-sookEditor's NoteDevelopmental disabilities, particularly autism spectrum disorder, show significant delays in social communication from early childhood. These individuals often exhibit restricted and repetitive behaviors or intense focus on limited interests. Lifelong socialization education is essential.In the past, people with developmental disabilities were often confined to homes or facilities. Today, early diagnosis and social education are helping many achieve independence.We visited Rua Orchestra (Artistic Director Kim Nam-jin), which supports the socialization of individuals with developmental disabilities through music. Rua Orchestra Inauguration CeremonyEvery morning, the sound of practice fills a building in Naedeok-dong, Cheongwon-gu, Cheongju. Rua Orchestra is the first orchestra in North Chungcheong Province composed of individuals with developmental disabilities. Members range in age from early 20s to late 30s.They are employees of Nepes Rua Co., Ltd., a subsidiary-type standard workplace for the disabled under Nepes, a semiconductor company. Nepes founded Rua Orchestra to train individuals with disabilities as members of society and support their independence. With guaranteed retirement, members practice daily from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., including personal and sectional practice, and ensemble sessions with Artistic Director Kim Nam-jin.“Rua” means “to shout with joy.” The orchestra began with eight members in May 2022 and officially launched with 25 members on November 3 of the same year. Currently, 19 members are active, supported by Director Kim and 11 instructors. The ensemble includes one percussionist and 18 string players (violin, cello, contrabass), and performances often incorporate piano, dance, and vocals. 2nd Regular Concert at Yonsei University Centennial Hall, SeoulCreating Something from NothingNepes, headquartered in Cheongju, recruited members primarily from the province. Few local individuals with disabilities had musical training, so selection focused more on willingness than skill. Except for two or three, most members learned their instruments through the orchestra. Director Kim and instructors taught everything from reading sheet music to bowing techniques, eventually producing harmonious sounds.Director Kim said, “The only difference is that our members learn more slowly and need more practice. Watching them improve and harmonize brings me joy and fulfillment.”Rua Orchestra performed over 80 times last year, averaging one performance per week. They won the grand prize at the 2023 National Developmental Disability Music Festival and held their first paid concert at Yonsei University’s Centennial Hall.Rua Orchestra Practice SceneInside the Practice RoomDuring ensemble sessions, Director Kim leads with warmth and patience, explaining everything at the members’ level.Once practice begins, the previously distracted members focus intently. Director Kim, though gentle, conducts with precision.He shared, “At first, I just hoped they could sit for 30 minutes. Now, they understand how to play and behave just by watching my gestures and expressions. Beyond musical ensemble, we teach the harmony of living as musicians.”Rua members consistently practice with joy and enthusiasm. They look forward to each morning in the practice room, tuning instruments and engaging in conversation without being prompted. Since joining the orchestra, they’ve gradually changed—those who once exhibited impulsive behaviors have improved, and frequent stage appearances have led them to care more about their appearance and hygiene.Rua Orchestra Inaugural PerformanceRua’s DreamRua Orchestra plays life’s score brightly and cheerfully, sometimes deeply and resonantly. Through music, members share joy and fill their lives with shining moments, realizing dreams of independence and a life without barriers.Director Kim said, “We want to move audiences with our harmony and deliver messages that improve awareness of disabilities. We’re preparing to share Rua’s unique stories and music with broader stages and the world.”Rua Orchestra will hold its regular concert at Cheongju Art Hall on October 24.Source: 루아오케스트라, 인생 악보 빛 그리다 < 사회 < 기사본문 - 충청리뷰

2025-07-09

Nepes and Eumseong County Disabled Welfare Center Sign MOU for Disability Welfare Improvement

On March 11, 2025, Nepes (President Lee Jung-young) and the Eumseong County Disabled Welfare Center (Director Jeon Ho-chan) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to enhance disability welfare and realize social value. The signing ceremony took place at the Welfare Center's conference room, with key members from both organizations in attendance.President Lee Jung-young emphasized Nepes' commitment to social responsibility and continuous support for improving the quality of life for people with disabilities. Director Jeon Ho-chan expressed gratitude for Nepes' support and pledged to create a warmer welfare environment through collaboration.This MOU is expected to provide substantial support to people with disabilities in Eumseong County and contribute to spreading a culture of sharing in the community.

2025-03-12

Nepes, Ministry of Gender Equality and Family 'Best Family Friendly Management' Certification

Nepes announced on the 24th that it has received the 'Best Family Friendly Management' certification from the Ministry of Gender Equality and Family.The Best Family Friendly Management certification is a government system that grants companies that operate family-friendly systems in an exemplary manner so that employees can balance work and family life, and was introduced in 2008.Nepes operates various systems to help employees balance work and family life. It is implementing a flexible work system that allows employees to choose their own working hours and a half-day system that allows employees to use their annual leave in units of hours. It also provides support for operating a workplace daycare center, supporting children's tuition and medical expenses, and supporting spouse health checkups.Through this certification, Nepes received excellent evaluations in various categories such as operating a family-friendly system, compliance with related laws, and employee satisfaction, and will maintain its qualification until 2027. If you obtain the family-friendly certification, you can receive additional points and other benefits in various evaluations and support projects by the government or financial institutions.Nepes announced that it plans to continue improving and expanding its family-friendly system to ensure the satisfaction of both employees and their families.

2024-12-24

Nepes, selected as an excellent workplace for “non-discriminatory workplace”

On the 5th, Nepes was selected as an excellent workplace for non-discriminatory workplace in 2024 at the ‘2024 Excellent Workplace Awards Ceremony for Creating a Workplace without Discrimination’ hosted by the Labor and Management Development Foundation.This awards ceremony, with the theme of a non-discriminatory workplace and a culture of mutual prosperity, selected and awarded 20 excellent workplaces that took the lead in improving employment structure and discrimination against irregular workers.Nepes received the Secretary General’s Award from the Labor and Management Development Foundation for contributing to creating a workplace without discrimination by converting subcontractors to regular employees in 2022.

2024-12-09