Korea Zinc announced $6.6 billion investment and creation of 400+ jobs in Clarksville
The announcement, made by the world’s leading comprehensive nonferrous metal manufacturer, represents the company’s first U.S. locations and the largest single private corporate investment made in state history.
Toward the end of 2025, Korea Zinc announced a big investment and corporate expansion into the United States. They plan a base in Northern Middle Tennessee.
Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee, Deputy Gov. and Department of Economic and Community Development (TNECD) Commissioner Stuart C. McWhorter, and Korea Zinc Chairman Yun B. Choi announced that the company will invest more than $6.6 billion in new production facilities in Clarksville and Gordonsville.
As part of its production efforts, Korea Zinc will create 420 new jobs in Montgomery County. Additionally, there will be 320 jobs in Smith County over the next five years.
The multi-county project comprises the construction of a new facility in Clarksville. This will house the company’s U.S. headquarters as well as manufacturing operations.
In Gordonsville, the company plans to reopen a former mine. The company, known for its commitment to community engagement, education, and environmental sustainability, plans to acquire and invest in several locations statewide.
Smith County Mayor Jeff Mason shared his excitement for the project and the re-opening of the county’s mining operations.
“Knowing that Smith County will play a vital role in our nation’s defense efforts and in supporting emerging technologies is a source of great pride for our community. I thank President Trump, our federal delegation, Gov. Lee, and the TNECD for their swift and diligent work to bring this project to Smith County. I welcome Korea Zinc to our community. We stand ready to partner in making this new beginning a successful and lasting endeavor,” he said.
This effort aligns with the White House initiative to remove reliance on foreign entities for critical and strategic mineral products. Korea Zinc is expected to play a role in supporting advanced military technology. Moreover, they aim to safeguard national and international security by reducing the nation’s dependence on China for critical minerals.
According to the TNECD, the economic development announcement was a direct result of Gov. Lee’s and Deputy Gov. and Commissioner McWhorter’s late 2025 international recruiting trip to Asia.
Since Gov. Lee took office, South Korea has emerged as one of the state’s top partners for foreign direct investment. They have been creating new jobs and investing capital – a total of $7.2 billion invested during this administration.
With Korea Zinc’s investment, South Korea will become the state’s No. 1 international partner for capital invested statewide since 2019.
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