South Korean metal manufacturer selects Clarksville and Gordonsville, Tennessee, for 740-job project
Korea Zinc, the world’s leading comprehensive nonferrous metal manufacturer, will invest more than $6.6 billion in new production facilities in Clarksville and Gordonsville. Chairman Yun B. Choi has announced that the company’s first U.S. facility will be the largest single private corporate investment made in state history.
“Tennessee offers a compelling combination of a highly skilled workforce, reliable infrastructure and strong collaboration at both the state and local levels, making it an ideal location for this project. This is a transformational endeavor for Korea Zinc and our long-term commitment to the region – one that will create high-quality jobs, contribute to the local economy and uphold the highest standards of environmental stewardship and safety. We look forward to building a lasting partnership with Tennessee and the Clarksville community as we grow together,” said Choi.
Production efforts will create 320 jobs in Smith County (as well as 420 in Montgomery County) over the next five years, according to state officials. It will be a multi-county project in which the company plans to reopen a former mine, “bringing back lost jobs and industry to the community.” The Clarksville facility will be the company’s headquarters.
“Korea Zinc choosing to invest in Smith County is a testament to our fantastic workforce and strong business community. The addition of more than 320 jobs will fuel economic growth and support families across the region. We thank everyone who helped bring this project to life and look forward to the company’s continued success,” according to Senator Paul Bailey (R-Sparta) and Rep. Michael Hale (R-Smithville).
The company plans to acquire and invest in several locations statewide.
“In addition, this effort builds upon agreements announced yesterday with the White House, and, subsequently, the U.S. Department of Commerce, the Department of War and other partners that rely on the company’s critical and strategic mineral products. Korea Zinc’s refining plays a vital role in supporting advanced military technology and safeguarding national and international security by reducing the nation’s dependence on China for critical minerals,” according to the release.
According to the State of TN, the invest “further strengthens” its relationship with South Korea and “reinforces a partnership built on innovation, manufacturing excellence and shared values.” With Korea Zinc’s investment, South Korea will become the state’s No. 1 international partner for capital invested statewide since 2019.
“Today’s announcement underscores that Tennessee is known globally as the best place to live, work and raise a family. I am proud to announce this historic investment and welcome Korea Zinc to the Volunteer State. These hundreds of new jobs will drive economic prosperity across this region for generations to come, and I am confident Korea Zinc will find continued success in partnership with Tennessee’s highly skilled workforce,” according to Governor Bill Lee.
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