# List of companies with in-house R&D in South Korea

Tamtam tracks 228 companies with in-house R&D headquartered in South Korea. This list ranks the 50 largest by number of employees on LinkedIn, led by Samsung Electronics, Hyundai Motor Company and LG Electronics. Their median headcount is 3,387. Half of them were founded in 1970 or later. The most common headquarters are Seoul (20).

The largest R&D companies in South Korea are predominantly large corporations in manufacturing, particularly electronics and automotive, alongside significant players in construction and higher education. Samsung Electronics innovates in a wide range of electronics, while Hyundai Motor Company focuses on automotive solutions. LG Electronics provides home appliances and digital signage, and Hyundai Engineering & Construction specializes in civil engineering and power plants. Seoul National University and Yonsei University are prominent in higher education.

Most of these large R&D companies are headquartered in Seoul, indicating a strong concentration of industrial and academic research in the capital. The founding dates show a mix of well-established companies from the mid-20th century, such as Hyundai Engineering & Construction (1947) and LG Chem (1947), and those founded later in the century, like Hyundai MOBIS (1977) and KT (1981).

🇰🇷 South Korea · 50 companies · Updated Nov 13, 2026

| # | Company | Industry | Headquarters | Employees | Founded |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | [Samsung Electronics](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/samsung-electronics) (samsung.com)<br>A global technology leader, constantly innovating in TVs, smartphones, wearables, appliances, medical devices, and more Embracing diversity and creativity for growth | Computers and Electronics Manufacturing | 🇰🇷 Suwon-Si | 287,000 |  |
| 2 | [Hyundai Motor Company](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/hyundai-motor-company) (hyundai.com)<br>Global automotive company producing millions of vehicles annually, focusing on clean energy, connected technology, and human-centered mobility solutions. | Motor Vehicle Manufacturing | 🇰🇷 Seoul | 66,571 |  |
| 3 | [LG Electronics](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/lg-electronics) (lg.com)<br>This company provides products and services aimed at improving lives through innovation in home appliances, electronics, digital signage, and more | Appliances, Electrical, and Electronics Manufacturing | 🇰🇷 Seoul | 64,886 |  |
| 4 | [Samsung Mobile](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/samsung-mobile) (samsung.com)<br>This company specializes in providing secure and highly productive mobile solutions for enterprises, focusing on Android security and productivity on Samsung Galaxy devices worldwide | Consumer Electronics | 🇰🇷 Gyeonggi-do | 19,596 | 1969 |
| 5 | [Hyundai Engineering & Construction Co.,Ltd.](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/hyundai-engineering-and-construction-co-ltd) (en.hdec.kr)<br>A leading South Korean construction company specializing in civil engineering, architecture, power plants, and nuclear power stations, focusing on improving life quality through innovation | Construction | 🇰🇷 Seoul | 13,577 | 1947 |
| 6 | [SAMSUNG E&A](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/samsung-e-and-a) (samsungena.com)<br>The company specializes in engineering, procurement, construction, and project management for various industries worldwide, focusing on innovative solutions and quality services | Construction | 🇰🇷 Gangdong-Gu | 9,171 | 1970 |
| 7 | [Hyundai MOBIS](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/hyundai-mobis) (mobis.com)<br>Specializing in automotive technology, we are a leading supplier of parts worldwide, with a focus on software and system solutions for future mobility | Motor Vehicle Manufacturing | 🇰🇷 Seoul | 8,509 | 1977 |
| 8 | [Seoul National University](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/seoul-national-university)<br>Leading academic community fostering scientific and technological progress, embracing challenges, and driving global transformation amid uncertainty. | Higher Education | 🇰🇷 Seoul | 8,458 |  |
| 9 | [KT](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/kt) (kt.com)<br>A digital platform company leading innovation in various industries, transforming customers' lives using AI, Bigdata, and Cloud technologies | Telecommunications | 🇰🇷 Sungnam | 8,284 | 1981 |
| 10 | [SK hynix](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/sk-hynix) (skhynix.com)<br>Leading global producer of DRAM and NAND Flash memory chips, providing advanced semiconductor solutions for diverse IT product demands worldwide. | Renewable Energy Semiconductor Manufacturing | 🇰🇷 Icheon | 8,276 | 1983 |
| 11 | [LG Energy Solution](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/lg-energy-solution) (lgensol.com)<br>A leading company in eco-friendly energy solutions, specializing in distinctive materials and next-generation batteries for EVs and energy storage systems | Appliances, Electrical, and Electronics Manufacturing | 🇰🇷 Seoul | 7,463 |  |
| 12 | [Hanon Systems](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/hanon-systems) (hanonsystems.com)<br>A global supplier of automotive thermal and energy management solutions for electrified and conventional vehicles, focusing on innovation, global reach, and sustainable value creation | Motor Vehicle Manufacturing | 🇰🇷 Daejeon | 6,236 | 1986 |
| 13 | [LG Display](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/lg-display) (lgdisplay.com)<br>Manufacturing display panels for TVs, computers, automobiles, tablets, and mobile devices in facilities across Korea, China, and Vietnam. | Appliances, Electrical, and Electronics Manufacturing | 🇰🇷 Seoul | 6,139 | 1987 |
| 14 | [LG Chem](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/lg-chem) (lgchem.com)<br>A global chemical company specializing in petrochemicals, advanced materials, and life sciences, committed to carbon-neutral growth and net-zero emissions by 2050 | Chemical Manufacturing | 🇰🇷 Seoul | 5,545 | 1947 |
| 15 | [Yonsei University](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/yonsei-university) (yonsei.ac.kr)<br>Leading university in Seoul offering comprehensive programs in education, research, and medical care with a global network and focus on sustainable development | Higher Education | 🇰🇷 Seodaemun-gu | 5,273 | 1885 |
| 16 | [NAVER Corp](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/naver-corp) (navercorp.com)<br>A global ICT company offering search portal, messenger, camera app, webtoon, metaverse platform, AI, robotics, and mobility innovations for shared growth | Technology, Information and Internet | 🇰🇷 Seongnam-Si | 5,121 | 1999 |
| 17 | [HD Hyundai Heavy Industries](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/hd-hyundai-heavy-industries) (hhi.co.kr)<br>A global leader in shipbuilding and heavy industries, with a history of innovation and excellence in delivering large-scale projects worldwide | Shipbuilding | 🇰🇷 Ulsan | 4,308 |  |
| 18 | [Samsung SDI](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/samsung-sdi) (samsungsdi.com)<br>Development and production of innovative technology products with cutting-edge features, focusing on creativity and continuous improvement since 1970. | Appliances, Electrical, and Electronics Manufacturing | 🇰🇷 Yongin-si | 4,080 | 1970 |
| 19 | [POSCO HOLDINGS](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/posco-holdings) (newsroom.posco.com)<br>A global steel producer known for innovative solutions, recognized for competitiveness, and committed to corporate citizenship and sustainable growth | Holding Companies | 🇰🇷 Pohang | 3,967 | 1968 |
| 20 | [Hanyang University](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/hanyang-university) (hanyang.ac.kr)<br>Private research university in South Korea with campuses in Seoul and Ansan Known for engineering, architecture, CEO alumni, and international student enrollment | Higher Education | 🇰🇷 Seoul | 3,920 |  |
| 21 | [SK Innovation](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/sk-innovation) (skinnovation.com)<br>SK Innovation is a leading energy company focused on sustainable technologies, oil refining, petrochemicals, electric vehicle batteries, and global material solutions | Oil and Gas | 🇰🇷 Seoul | 3,906 | 1962 |
| 22 | [AMOREPACIFIC](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/amorepacific) (apgroup.com)<br>Established in 1945, this leading Korean beauty conglomerate operates numerous brands in beauty, personal care, and health care industries | Personal Care Product Manufacturing | 🇰🇷 Seoul | 3,746 | 1945 |
| 23 | [HL Mando](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/hl-mando) (hlmando.com)<br>A leading automotive parts company focused on developing cutting-edge technology and quality parts for safe vehicles on a global scale | Motor Vehicle Manufacturing | 🇰🇷 Seongnam | 3,561 | 1962 |
| 24 | [Samsung Display](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/samsung-display) (samsungdisplay.com)<br>Global leader providing cutting-edge display solutions with OLED and QD-OLED technology for smartphones, TVs, laptops, monitors, smartwatches, VRs, game consoles, and automotive applications. | Appliances, Electrical, and Electronics Manufacturing | 🇰🇷 Yongin-si | 3,443 | 2012 |
| 25 | [LG Innotek](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/lg-innotek) (lginnotek.com)<br>A global materials and components company innovating for various industries with products like camera modules, display substrates, semiconductor packages, and Industry 40 technologies | Appliances, Electrical, and Electronics Manufacturing | 🇰🇷 Seoul | 3,387 | 1970 |
| 26 | [Youngone Corporation](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/youngone-corporation) (youngone.co.kr)<br>Manufacturing performance and outdoor apparel, footwear, bags, and accessories with global production facilities and a focus on quality and community development. | Retail Apparel and Fashion | 🇰🇷 | 3,155 | 1974 |
| 27 | [CJ CheilJedang](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/cj-cheiljedang) (cj.co.kr)<br>A global lifestyle company transitioning from a food company, focusing on healthy, convenient products, biotech, and global expansion with premium brands | Food and Beverage Services | 🇰🇷 Jung-gu | 3,111 |  |
| 28 | [Samsung Electro-Mechanics](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/samsung-electro-mechanics) (samsungsem.com)<br>Develops and produces advanced electronic components, modules, and substrates globally using high-frequency wireless materials and precision mechanics for diverse business-to-business technology solutions. | Appliances, Electrical, and Electronics Manufacturing | 🇰🇷 Suwon | 3,077 | 1973 |
| 29 | [DL E&C Co., Ltd](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/dl-e-and-c-co-ltd) (dlenc.co.kr)<br>A global construction company with over 80 years of experience, specializing in infrastructure projects, development, and ecofriendly initiatives such as CCUS and clean energy | Construction | 🇰🇷 Seoul | 2,882 | 1939 |
| 30 | [Kia Worldwide](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/kia-worldwide) (worldwide.kia.com)<br>The company believes movement inspires ideas and creates sustainable mobility solutions, products, stores, and services to free up time for activities | Motor Vehicle Manufacturing | 🇰🇷 Seoul | 2,778 |  |
| 31 | [Celltrion Inc](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/celltrion-inc) (celltrion.com)<br>Global marketer of biological medicines, including the world's first biosimilar monoclonal antibody, to expand patient access to advanced therapies worldwide | Pharmaceutical Manufacturing | 🇰🇷 Incheon | 2,628 | 1999 |
| 32 | [Sungkyunkwan University](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/sungkyunkwan-university) (skku.edu)<br>A top-ranking private university in Korea focusing on nurturing students' soft skills, supported by Samsung for academic and research advancements | Higher Education | 🇰🇷 Seoul | 2,605 | 1398 |
| 33 | [Hyosung Corporation](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/hyosung-corporation) (hyosung.com)<br>An innovative conglomerate focused on developing materials, parts, and equipment for safer vehicles, sustainable electricity, functional clothing, and customer well-being | International Trade and Development | 🇰🇷 Seoul | 2,571 | 1966 |
| 34 | [Kyung Hee University](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/kyung-hee-university) (khu.ac.kr)<br>A leading comprehensive university in South Korea, promoting academic excellence and peacebuilding with a history of 68 years and multiple campuses | Higher Education | 🇰🇷 Seoul | 2,457 | 1949 |
| 35 | [Samsung Biologics](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/samsung-biologics) (samsungbiologics.com)<br>Fully integrated CDMO providing contract development and manufacturing services for biologics products with largest capacity, fastest throughput, and proven regulatory approvals globally | Pharmaceutical Manufacturing | 🇰🇷 Yeonsu-gu | 2,450 | 2011 |
| 36 | [SK Group](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/sk-group) (eng.sk.com)<br>Investment and development in manufacturing, EV batteries, hydrogen energy, pharmaceuticals, semiconductors, focusing on growth, governance, and social impact. | Manufacturing | 🇰🇷 Seoul | 2,368 | 1953 |
| 37 | [PUBG Corporation](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/pubg-corporation) (krafton.com)<br>KRAFTON, Inc is a collective of game development studios creating innovative entertainment experiences worldwide, including popular titles like PUBG and TERA | Computer Games | 🇰🇷 Seoul | 2,256 |  |
| 38 | [Ewha Womans University 이화여자대학교](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/ewha-womans-university) (ewha.ac.kr)<br>Pioneering women's education since 1886, this university in Korea has dedicated itself to empowering women and achieving excellence in society | Higher Education | 🇰🇷 Seodaemun-gu | 2,098 |  |
| 39 | [Hankook Tire](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/hankook-tire-seongnam-si) (hankooktire.com)<br>Manufacture and supply high-quality tires globally, focusing on innovation, premium brands, and sustainable ESG management practices. | Motor Vehicle Manufacturing | 🇰🇷 Seongnam-si | 2,083 | 1941 |
| 40 | [Samsung Heavy Industries](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/samsung-heavy-industries) (shi.samsung.co.kr)<br>A global leader in shipbuilding and offshore EPC projects, specializing in high-tech vessels and pioneering innovative products in various markets | Shipbuilding | 🇰🇷 Pangyo | 2,080 | 1974 |
| 41 | [KAIST](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/kaist) (kaist.ac.kr)<br>A leading research university in South Korea focusing on science and engineering education and research, often compared to MIT | Higher Education | 🇰🇷 Yuseong-gu | 2,052 | 1971 |
| 42 | [CJ Logistics](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/cj-logistics-seoul) (cjlogistics.com)<br>Leading global logistics company providing innovative supply chain management, technology, engineering, and consulting services across 40 countries worldwide. | Transportation, Logistics, Supply Chain and Storage | 🇰🇷 Seoul | 1,956 | 1930 |
| 43 | [LOTTE chemical](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/lotte-chemical) (lottechem.com)<br>A global petrochemical company focused on developing cutting-edge technologies for producing high-quality chemical products and expanding globally | Chemical Manufacturing | 🇰🇷 Songpa-gu | 1,939 | 1976 |
| 44 | [ETRI](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/etri) (etri.re.kr)<br>A global ICT research institute dedicated to developing innovative technologies, leading the creative economy, and enhancing Korea's position in the ICT industry worldwide | Research Services | 🇰🇷 Daejeon | 1,875 | 1976 |
| 45 | [Doosan Enerbility](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/doosan-enerbility) (doosanenerbility.com)<br>A global provider of integrated solutions in power generation, energy, and desalination plants, offering sustainable energy solutions worldwide since 1962 | Electric Power Generation | 🇰🇷 Changwon | 1,726 | 1962 |
| 46 | [KRAFTON Inc.](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/krafton-inc) (krafton.com)<br>Group of creative studios developing innovative technology and entertainment experiences designed for long-term fan engagement and interaction. | Computer Games | 🇰🇷 Gangnam-gu | 1,682 | 2007 |
| 47 | [(주)우아한형제들 (Woowa Bros.)](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/woowa-bros) (career.woowahan.com)<br>A leading delivery app company revolutionizing food culture by providing fast delivery, online grocery shopping, and door-to-door delivery of various products | Technology, Information and Internet | 🇰🇷 Songpa-gu | 1,656 | 2011 |
| 48 | [LINE Plus Corp](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/line-plus-corp) (linepluscorp.com)<br>A global mobile platform company offering a variety of services like search, messaging, media, commerce, fintech, and AI to create amazing everyday experiences | Technology, Information and Internet | 🇰🇷 Bundang-gu | 1,634 | 2013 |
| 49 | [LS Cable & System](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/ls-cable-and-system) (lscns.co.kr)<br>A global cable solutions provider offering state-of-the-art products, engineering services, and global production capacity to power authorities and carriers worldwide | Manufacturing | 🇰🇷 Anyang-si | 1,630 | 1962 |
| 50 | [Chung-Ang University](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/chung-ang-university) (cau.ac.kr)<br>A university focused on providing quality education and nurturing talented individuals to meet the needs of society Leading educational trends and promoting reform | Higher Education | 🇰🇷 Seoul | 1,594 |  |

## How this list is built

Every company on this list has a Tamtam company profile. The industry is the one the company gives on LinkedIn; categories such as SaaS or fintech are classified by Tamtam's AI from the company's website and LinkedIn page; and the headquarters city must match the company's own address. Companies are ranked by the number of employees on LinkedIn, and the list is refreshed every night. Classifications can be wrong, so treat the list as a starting point rather than an official ranking. Last updated Nov 13, 2026.

## More company lists in South Korea

- [The largest companies in South Korea](https://www.tamtam.ai/l/largest-companies-south-korea) (879)
- [Multinational companies in South Korea](https://www.tamtam.ai/l/multinational-companies-south-korea) (298)
- [Manufacturers in South Korea](https://www.tamtam.ai/l/manufacturers-south-korea) (171)
- [Publicly traded companies in South Korea](https://www.tamtam.ai/l/publicly-traded-companies-south-korea) (122)
- [Companies with a mobile app in South Korea](https://www.tamtam.ai/l/companies-with-mobile-app-south-korea) (116)
- [IT Services and IT Consulting companies in South Korea](https://www.tamtam.ai/l/it-services-and-it-consulting-companies-south-korea) (112)
- [Hardware manufacturers in South Korea](https://www.tamtam.ai/l/hardware-companies-south-korea) (98)
- [Corporate groups and holding companies in South Korea](https://www.tamtam.ai/l/holding-companies-south-korea) (98)
- [Education providers in South Korea](https://www.tamtam.ai/l/education-companies-south-korea) (88)
- [Financial services firms in South Korea](https://www.tamtam.ai/l/financial-services-firms-south-korea) (73)
- [Higher Education companies in South Korea](https://www.tamtam.ai/l/higher-education-companies-south-korea) (65)
- [Critical infrastructure operators in South Korea](https://www.tamtam.ai/l/critical-infrastructure-operators-south-korea) (60)
- [Retail chains in South Korea](https://www.tamtam.ai/l/retail-chains-south-korea) (59)
- [AI companies in South Korea](https://www.tamtam.ai/l/ai-companies-south-korea) (55)
- [Computer Games companies in South Korea](https://www.tamtam.ai/l/computer-games-companies-south-korea) (53)
- [Public sector organisations in South Korea](https://www.tamtam.ai/l/public-sector-organisations-south-korea) (48)
- [Energy companies in South Korea](https://www.tamtam.ai/l/energy-companies-south-korea) (47)
- [Financial Services companies in South Korea](https://www.tamtam.ai/l/financial-services-companies-south-korea) (46)
- [Research institutes in South Korea](https://www.tamtam.ai/l/research-institutes-south-korea) (43)
- [Automotive manufacturers and suppliers in South Korea](https://www.tamtam.ai/l/automotive-companies-south-korea) (42)
- [E-commerce companies in South Korea](https://www.tamtam.ai/l/ecommerce-companies-south-korea) (42)
- [Electronics and semiconductor companies in South Korea](https://www.tamtam.ai/l/electronics-companies-south-korea) (37)
- [Chemical companies in South Korea](https://www.tamtam.ai/l/chemical-companies-south-korea) (29)
- [SaaS companies in South Korea](https://www.tamtam.ai/l/saas-companies-south-korea) (28)

## The same list elsewhere in South Korea

- [Companies with in-house R&D in Gyeonggi](https://www.tamtam.ai/l/r-and-d-companies-gyeonggi) (55)
- [Companies with in-house R&D in Seoul](https://www.tamtam.ai/l/r-and-d-companies-seoul) (88)

## The same list elsewhere

- [Companies with in-house R&D in the world](https://www.tamtam.ai/l/r-and-d-companies-in-the-world) (34,334)
- [Companies with in-house R&D in Asia](https://www.tamtam.ai/l/r-and-d-companies-in-asia) (4,159)

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Source: https://www.tamtam.ai/l/r-and-d-companies-south-korea