LS GreenLink USA, Inc. (“LS GreenLink”), a subsidiary of LS Cable & System Ltd. (“LS Cable & System”), today officially commenced construction on its state-of-the-art manufacturing and port facility in Chesapeake, Virginia. This significant project represents a major advancement in bolstering global energy infrastructure, with the initial phase representing an investment exceeding $681 million and the creation of more than 330 new jobs in the region.

The initial phase of the development will encompass a 750,000 sq. ft. advanced manufacturing plant, a 660-foot VCV (Vertical Continuous Vulcanization) tower, and a dedicated pier, all designed to enhance the production, handling, and global delivery of HVDC (high-voltage direct current) submarine cables critical to modern energy infrastructure. The 660-foot VCV tower is projected to be the tallest structure in the Commonwealth of Virginia and the tallest structure between Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and Charlotte, North Carolina, underscoring the facility’s significant contribution to the regional skyline.

Bon-Kyu Koo, President & CEO of LS Cable & System, said, “This groundbreaking marks a monumental step forward for LS Cable & System in fulfilling our global vision for energy infrastructure. By investing in cutting-edge manufacturing facilities like the one in Chesapeake, Virginia, we not only strengthen our competitive position in the global market but also play a crucial role in providing innovative solutions to meet the world’s growing energy demands. The success of this project will enhance our global footprint and contribute significantly to the advancement of sustainable energy systems worldwide.”

Gisu Kim, Regional President of North America at LS Cable & System, emphasized the significance of the new facility, stating, “The development of this advanced manufacturing facility highlights LS Cable & System’s continued commitment to the United States. This project not only strengthens our global production capabilities but also contributes directly to local economic growth and the advancement of the region’s energy infrastructure. We are proud to support the communities where we operate and look forward to the positive impact this facility will have across the broader energy sector.”

“This groundbreaking event represents far more than the launch of a construction project – it marks the start of a long-term investment in innovation, sustainability, and energy resilience,” said Patrick Y. Shim, Managing Director of LS GreenLink USA, Inc. “With this facility, LS GreenLink is laying the foundation for leadership in advanced manufacturing while reinforcing the global energy infrastructure that powers industries and communities worldwide.”

Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin remarked, “The commencement of this facility in Chesapeake is a proud moment for Virginia. This investment strengthens our leadership in innovation, energy, and manufacturing while creating hundreds of new jobs. LS GreenLink’s commitment to developing advanced energy infrastructure here exemplifies the innovative and impactful growth we are seeing across the Commonwealth.”

U.S. Senator Mark Warner stated, “I’ve been proud to support this project, and am thrilled to finally celebrate the groundbreaking of this manufacturing and port facility. This investment by LS GreenLink will be tremendous for Chesapeake, and for Virginia as a whole, bringing high-quality, good-paying jobs to the region while continuing the Commonwealth’s leadership in energy investment and infrastructure.”

“I’m thrilled to be breaking ground with LS GreenLink on its Hampton Roads cable manufacturing and pier facility, and I’m proud that this project was facilitated by tax credits in the Inflation Reduction Act that I fought to pass,” said U.S. Senator Kaine. “This facility will create hundreds of high-quality, good-paying jobs, boost the region’s economy, and affirm Virginia’s global status as a clean energy hub.”

U.S. Representative Bobby Scott shared, “I am proud to welcome LS GreenLink to Virginia’s Third Congressional District. Hampton Roads is a leader in offshore wind production and this subsea cable facility is an important piece of the domestic offshore wind supply chain. Thanks to the Inflation Reduction Act, LS GreenLink is utilizing tax credits for projects that expand clean energy. The manufacturing tax credits, which I spearheaded with my colleagues, are bringing high-paying jobs to our local economy and I look forward to seeing the completed facility.”

“This groundbreaking ceremony represents not just a significant investment in the City of Chesapeake but also for the Hampton Roads community,” said Chesapeake City Mayor Rick West. “This investment represents a huge step for the region’s clean energy and offshore wind industries. LS GreenLink’s decision to locate in Chesapeake proves the City’s and region’s commitment to clean, renewable energy. We look forward to future investment from LS and a continued partnership with South Korea.”

Doug Smith, President & CEO of Hampton Roads Alliance, commented, “The Hampton Roads region has long been recognized for its strong maritime and manufacturing capabilities. This significant investment from LS GreenLink in Virginia not only enhances our regional economy but further establishes Hampton Roads as a hub for innovation and advanced manufacturing in the energy sector. We are excited to support LS GreenLink in this endeavor.”

Finally, David White, Executive Director of Virginia Maritime Association, added, “The development of this advanced manufacturing facility in Chesapeake aligns with the strategic growth of Virginia’s maritime industry. This project will provide critical infrastructure for the global energy supply chain while creating high-quality jobs in the region. We are proud to be part of this exciting development and look forward to its future success.”

The initial phase is expected to be completed by the third quarter of 2027, with the facility fully operational by the first quarter of 2028. Subsequent phases of the project are planned, allowing LS GreenLink to expand its production capacity and technological capabilities in response to evolving global infrastructure requirements.

The groundbreaking ceremony brought together executives from LS GreenLink, elected officials, industry partners, and local community leaders, all of whom expressed their support for the project’s positive economic and strategic impact on the region.