{"id":1505,"date":"2025-02-18T00:00:21","date_gmt":"2025-02-18T00:00:21","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/localhost:8080\/the-new-honored-engineers-and-masters-looking-past-retirement\/"},"modified":"2026-07-17T03:52:35","modified_gmt":"2026-07-17T03:52:35","slug":"the-new-honored-engineers-and-masters-looking-past-retirement","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/news.skhynix.com\/en\/the-new-honored-engineers-and-masters-looking-past-retirement\/","title":{"rendered":"Meet the New Honored Engineers and Masters of 2025: The Technical Experts Looking Beyond Retirement at SK hynix"},"content":{"rendered":"

SK hynix operates a dedicated career track for technical experts, empowering engineers at the company to refine their technical capabilities and advance their careers. This track includes Distinguished Engineers (DE) and Honored Engineers (HE) in the semiconductor technology field and Masters and Honored Masters in the equipment maintenance domain. By encouraging career growth and extending work opportunities beyond the retirement age, the company not only instills pride among its engineers but also strengthens its technological expertise.<\/p>\n

In 2025, SK hynix is continuing this practice by appointing thirteen DEs, one HE, five Masters, and two Honored Masters. The program is garnering significant attention this year as Heeyoul Lee, the company\u2019s inaugural HE, has become the first to continue working beyond the official retirement age. To find out more about the initiative, the SK hynix Newsroom sat down with HE Kyoonhyoung Kim and Honored Masters Youngdae Kwon and Jeongil Shin to gain insights into their appointments and visions.<\/p>\n

<\/div>\n
\n
\n
<\/div>\n

Appointment of Top Technical Experts: A Shared Sense of Pride & Responsibility<\/h3>\n
<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

At SK hynix, HEs and Honored Masters are esteemed technical experts who pass down their field expertise to junior engineers and provide solutions to complex challenges. The company systemized the Technical Expert Career Track by introducing the HE and Honored Master appointment programs in 2020 and 2022, respectively, building on the previously established DE and Master track. Under this framework, the company selects the most skilled and experienced individuals as DEs and Masters. Only DEs and Masters with the highest technical skills advance to HEs and Honored Masters, respectively.<\/p>\n

The rigorous selection process for HEs and Honored Masters involves evaluating candidates\u2019 technical capabilities, reputations, and executive assessments. Therefore, only those with the highest technical proficiency are chosen to continue research and development beyond retirement age. Reflecting on this prestigious recognition, Kim, Kwon, and Shin expressed both immense pride and a deep sense of responsibility.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s an honor to see my dream become a reality,\u201d Kim said. \u201cWhile my responsibility is greater, I see this as a great opportunity to do more important work. As an HE, I will do my best to set a model example for the Technical Expert Career Track.\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m proud to be recognized for the hard work I\u2019ve shared with my colleagues,\u201d Kwon stated. \u201cI will not only comprehensively document my knowledge in whitepapers but also pass down my expertise, and grow together with the team as an Honored Master.\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n

\u201cThis recognition gives me pride in my work,\u201d Shin revealed. \u201cI will continue to focus on improving my capabilities, sharing my knowledge, and fulfilling my responsibilities as an Honored Master, striving to be a model member.\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n

The three gurus plan to continue leveraging their roles to make a broader impact. Kim aims to establish technology roadmaps and explore new business models while pioneering future technologies and mentoring junior engineers. Kwon hopes to collaborate with colleagues to solve complex challenges while documenting his unique know-how to train future Honored Masters. Meanwhile, in fulfilling his role as an Honored Master, Shin will deepen his knowledge of lithography*<\/span> equipment, including manufacturer-related expertise. This will help achieve early stabilization of new equipment and boost company knowledge about the field and programming applications.<\/p>\n

*<\/span> Lithography: A process used in semiconductor manufacturing to transfer intricate patterns onto a surface, typically a silicon wafer. Lithography can involve the use of deep ultraviolet (DUV) and extreme ultraviolet (EUV) wavelengths.<\/p>\n

<\/div>\n
\n
\n
<\/div>\n

Fostering Innovative Achievements Through Decades of Expertise<\/h3>\n
<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

The journeys of Kim, Kwon, and Shin to the pinnacle of their careers involve decades of innovation and achievements. Over the years, they have honed their expertise, becoming highly skilled in their fields while garnering significant accomplishments along the way.<\/p>\n

\"Kim<\/p>\n

\u25b2 Kim has a strong passion for modeling and achieving real-world results<\/p>\n

Since joining the company in 1992, Kim has accumulated 33 years of experience in modeling research. As a physics major, he developed a strong interest in modeling after joining the company as it involves analyzing device characteristics using physical equations and computer simulations. He took immense satisfaction in seeing his simulation results align perfectly with real-world product performance, which further fueled his passion.<\/p>\n

\u201cOne standout moment came in 2014 when I successfully developed a proprietary SPICE*<\/span> model despite the challenges of maintaining modeling accuracy amid device miniaturization,\u201d said Kim. \u201cThis model remains in use today, which gives me an indescribable sense of accomplishment.\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n

*<\/span> Simulation Program with Integrated Circuit Emphasis (SPICE): A computer simulation model used to model and analyze electrical circuits, helping engineers predict how a circuit will behave before it is built.<\/p>\n

Kim\u2019s development of a leading SPICE model significantly impacted his evaluation for the Technical Expert Career Track, establishing his reputation as an expert in the field.<\/p>\n

\"Kwon<\/p>\n

\u25b2 Kwon has relished tackling technical challenges throughout his career<\/p>\n

For over 30 years, Kwon has tackled countless technical challenges, finding the most fulfillment in solving difficult problems. He compared the thrill of resolving unsolved issues to cracking a cold case. His proficiency was especially evident in the localization of very high temperature*<\/span> (VHT) carbon equipment, one of his key achievements.<\/p>\n

*<\/span> Very high temperature (VHT): Refers to operating conditions that significantly exceed standard temperature ranges. VHT devices can perform efficiently in elevated temperatures due to the inclusion of heat-resistant materials.<\/p>\n

\u201cFor a year, a critical issue in this project remained unsolved, pushing it to the brink of failure,\u201d Kwon revealed. \u201cIn response, we formed a united team with process engineers, equipment specialists, and partner companies, working tirelessly to find a solution. Not only did we overcome the challenge, but we also gained industry recognition for our technological capabilities, securing exclusive rights in the process.\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n

Following this success, Kwon continued to make significant contributions by actively participating in a task force (TF) team which aimed to enhance equipment competitiveness. His efforts in establishing and standardizing various management systems further solidified his capabilities, ultimately leading him to achieve the prestigious title of Honored Master.<\/p>\n

\"Shin<\/p>\n

\u25b2 Shin taught himself various programming languages during his journey to becoming an Honored Master<\/p>\n

As a young engineer, Shin\u2019s passion for programming led him to explore game development. Over the years, he taught himself multiple programming languages including C, C++, and Python, building a knowledge base which would play a key role in his journey to becoming an Honored Master.<\/p>\n

\u201cLithography equipment generates approximately 1 GB of data per hour, usually requiring manufacturer support for data analysis,\u201d Shin said. \u201cTo streamline this process, I combined my domain knowledge with programming to develop an in-house lithography equipment analysis tool, enabling our team to analyze data independently and much more efficiently.\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n

Shin\u2019s analysis tool greatly improved engineers\u2019 workflow efficiency, leading him to earn the Honored Master title. His dedication to data analysis remains strong to this day as he still monitors three screens at once, searching for hidden insights within continuously updated datasets. He credits this technical acumen and unwavering passion as the secrets to his growth as an Honored Master.<\/p>\n

<\/div>\n
\n
\n
<\/div>\n

Technical Excellence as a Foundation, Outstanding Reputation as the Key to the Top<\/h3>\n
<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

As tech gurus, the three newly appointed experts have earned deep respect from their colleagues, a key factor in their selection as HEs and Honored Masters.<\/p>\n

\"Kim's<\/p>\n

\u25b2 Kim\u2019s colleagues at the 2025 Technical Experts Appointment Ceremony showing him support<\/p>\n

Kim\u2019s bond with his colleagues was particularly evident at his HE appointment ceremony as his coworkers held banners in his honor. When asked about the secret behind this strong relationship, he emphasized the importance of open and informal communication.<\/p>\n

\u201cStepping into a new career path, I knew I had to set an example,\u201d Kim stated. \u201cMore than anything, I made it a priority to continuously communicate with my colleagues. I made a conscious effort to actively participate in team events and engage with everyone on an equal footing.\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n

\"Kwon<\/p>\n

\u25b2 Kwon and Shin celebrating with colleagues at the 2025 Technical Experts Appointment Ceremony<\/p>\n

Kwon attributed his strong reputation to always demonstrating exemplary behavior and prioritizing horizontal communication. \u201cI treated every organizational challenge as my own, leading by example,\u201d he revealed. \u201cWhen working with others, I maintained a horizontal approach, listening carefully to different perspectives. To foster equal communication, I also obtained relevant certifications to deepen my understanding of data, allowing me to engage in more data-driven decision-making.\u201d<\/p>\n

Meanwhile, Shin pointed to his significant on-the-job experience as the foundation for his status at the company. \u201cI simplified maintenance technology training by creating quizzes for junior engineers and always stepped in first when issues arose,\u201d he explained. \u201cI believe my approach as a mentor, which involves always sharing knowledge, and my extensive hands-on experience contributed to my positive evaluation.\u201d<\/p>\n

The three gurus, with their combined technical expertise and strong reputations, also shared their visions for the future:<\/p>\n

    \n
  • Kim: \u201cMy vision is to enhance simulation accuracy and share my knowledge to foster junior engineers who can internalize the company\u2019s VWBE*<\/span> philosophy. At the same time, I will continue developing technology roadmaps and driving innovation.\u201d<\/strong><\/li>\n
  • Kwon: \u201cWith a commitment to ending on a high note, I see myself growing as a CVD*<\/span> expert while exploring new fields to become a pi-shaped*<\/span> talent. Additionally, I will document my knowledge in whitepapers and actively share my expertise through SKHU*<\/span> lectures.\u201d<\/strong><\/li>\n
  • Shin: \u201cI will dedicate myself to continuous self-improvement to stay ahead in this fast-changing industry. With the skills I develop, I will carefully mentor junior engineers and communicate every detail.\u201d<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

    *<\/span> Voluntarily, Willingly, Brain, Engagement (VWBE): SK Group\u2019s management philosophy that emphasizes proactive and engaged thinking.
    \n*<\/span> Chemical vapor deposition (CVD): A method that deposits materials onto the wafer\u2019s surface using a chemical reaction.
    \n*<\/span> Pi-shaped: Individuals who have deep expertise in two distinct areas (represented by the two vertical lines of the symbol for pi, \u03c0) and a broad understanding across multiple disciplines.
    \n*<\/span> SKHU (SK hynix University): SK hynix\u2019s internal educational institute, offering structured technical and business training to enhance skills at all levels and boost the company\u2019s competitiveness.<\/p>\n

    <\/div>\n
    \n
    \n
    <\/div>\n

    Advancing Technical Achievements After Retirement<\/h3>\n
    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

    Kim, Kwon, and Shin shared their final thoughts on the Technical Expert Career Track. \u201cWe have provided a blueprint for engineers and equipment maintenance team members to focus on developing their technical capabilities,\u201d they said. \u201cThis initiative not only plays a central role in advancing and disseminating technology, but also serves as a driving force to break through growing technological limits.\u201d<\/p>\n

    Expressing their gratitude, they added: \u201cWe are thankful that this initiative allows us to pass on our technical achievements to the next generation even after retirement.\u201d Kim, who is approaching retirement age this year, remarked: \u201cI am proud to have the opportunity to continue working even after reaching the retirement age. I am determined to help establish SK hynix as the global leader in modeling.\u201d<\/p>\n

    \"Kim,<\/p>\n

    \u25b2 Kim, Kwon, and Shin express their appreciation for the Technical Expert Career Track<\/p>\n

    Finally, the three gurus shared advice for aspiring technical experts:<\/p>\n

      \n
    • Kim: \u201cIf you have passion and determination, anyone can become a technical expert. I encourage you to broaden your perspective, develop deeper insights, and challenge yourself with perseverance\u2014all while maintaining good relationships with your colleagues.\u201d<\/strong><\/li>\n
    • Kwon: \u201cChallenge yourself with difficult goals and make bold attempts to break the mold. Keep developing your skills consistently, communicate effectively with colleagues, and work with a courageous attitude under the VWBE philosophy.\u201d<\/strong><\/li>\n
    • Shin: \u201cI became an Honored Master because I honed my programming skills early on. So, prepare diligently, even if no one recognizes your efforts. Opportunities come to those who are ready.\u201d<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

      Meanwhile, Heeyoul Lee, the inaugural HE and the first to continue working past retirement age, remains a mentor dedicated to passing on his know-how to the next generation.<\/p>\n

      At SK hynix, DEs, HEs, Masters, and Honored Masters are actively contributing to the growth of the company and strengthening its technical foundation. Lee, Kim, Kwon, and Shin are committed to continually advancing the company\u2019s technological expertise and upholding their responsibilities as the top experts in their fields.<\/p>\n

      \n