[Biz Leader] Jaeyoung Solutec Targets AI, Robotics, and Autonomous Vehicles with Action-Oriented Talent for Global Expansion

Kim Taeil, Vice President of Jaeyoung Solutec.

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"Jaeyoung Solutec, which has established a sustainable growth structure based on outstanding technological capabilities, will continue to discover future growth engines together with talented individuals who possess 'performance-driven execution power.'"

Kim Taeil, Vice President of Jaeyoung Solutec, a leading company in the smartphone camera actuator sector, recently shared his vision in an interview with Asia Economy. He stated that the company aims to enter future industries such as AI smartphones, robotics, and autonomous vehicles in collaboration with 'action-oriented talent.'

Founded in 1976, Jaeyoung Solutec is a KOSDAQ-listed optics and IT company. It has established a partnership with its major client, Samsung Electronics, supplying components for the Galaxy series.

The following is a Q&A with Vice President Kim.

Q. What is the camera actuator, Jaeyoung Solutec's flagship product?

A. The camera actuator is a core component that enables fast and precise adjustment of the smartphone camera lens focus, making it possible to capture high-resolution photos and videos. With features such as miniaturization, high-precision control, and low power consumption, it plays a crucial role in enhancing image quality when installed in smartphones.

Q. What are the characteristics and differences of each product lineup, such as VCM, Encoder, and OIS?

A. VCM (Voice Coil Motor) is a basic actuator that adjusts the lens position using electromagnetic force. Its simple structure and high stability make it widely used in entry-level to mid-range smartphone cameras. The Encoder is equipped with a built-in position sensor that enables precise recognition of lens position, allowing for more accurate and faster focus control. It is suitable for high-performance cameras and multi-camera systems. OIS (Optical Image Stabilization) is an actuator with a function that detects hand tremors during shooting and compensates for lens movement, thereby reducing blurring in photos and videos. It is an essential component in high-end smartphones, and recently, its adoption is expanding to mid-range devices as well.

Q. Why do you operate Jaeyoung VINA (the Vietnam subsidiary), your main production base, and what is the local situation?

A. Vietnam, with its skilled workforce and stable infrastructure, is the optimal production hub for maintaining high quality while ensuring cost competitiveness. In addition, since most major clients, including Samsung Electronics, carry out production in Vietnam, the location is strategically advantageous for supply chain efficiency. Currently, we maintain smooth cooperation with relevant government departments in Bac Ninh Province and are continuing stable production activities in Vietnam.

Q. What are the features, market response, and outlook for the recently developed 'Hybrid OIS' product?

A. Hybrid OIS is a new product that combines the existing Ball-type OIS function with a spring-driven structure, enabling superior optical performance while achieving more than 10% cost reduction. In particular, it can be manufactured thinner than conventional OIS, which has been well received by clients focusing on slim and lightweight smartphones. We expect its application to expand to mid-range lineups such as the Galaxy A series in the future.

Q. What were the main factors behind achieving 110 billion KRW in sales and 10 billion KRW in operating profit last year, and what is your outlook for this year?

A. The main factors for last year's improved performance were the full-scale increase in OIS sales and ongoing cost reduction efforts. This year, driven by expanded mass production of core technologies such as Hybrid OIS and increased adoption in new models, we expect sales of 160 billion KRW and operating profit in the range of 15 to 20 billion KRW.

Q. How do you see the importance of camera components changing in the era of AI smartphones?

A. For AI to perform various functions such as improving photo and video quality, real-time recognition, search, and augmented reality (AR), accurate and stable optical information input is essential. Accordingly, the importance of precision control-based actuators like OIS is expected to grow further, and demand for high resolution, high-speed response, and miniaturization technologies will continue to increase.

Q. Are there plans to expand into new business areas?

A. The ultra-precision actuator technology possessed by Jaeyoung Solutec is highly versatile and can be applied not only to mobile optical systems but also to various industries such as robotics, automation systems, and mobility. We are preparing to develop high-drive actuator systems to enter these markets. Currently, we are focusing our R&D capabilities around our newly established Seoul Development Research Center, and in the mid to long term, we plan to expand our technology into diverse areas, including AI camera modules, robot components, and automotive sensors. Our goal is to evolve beyond simple component supply into a 'smart actuator platform' that integrates AI, sensor, and control technologies.

Q. What kind of talent does the company seek?

A. We seek individuals who possess 'execution power linked to performance' within a technology-based sustainable growth structure, rather than those who merely adapt to the organization. The market we operate in is characterized by rapid technological evolution, so 'commercialization speed' and 'agility in market response' are crucial. Therefore, we value talent who can collaborate and take action to ensure that the company's technology and capabilities create real value in the market, rather than simply fitting into the organization. In a changing industrial environment, we are growing together with responsible members who understand the links between technology, business, and organization, and who directly contribute to realizing the company's vision from their respective positions.

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