Korea Zinc, the leading comprehensive nonferrous metal manufacturer, will invest more than $6.6 billion in new production facilities in Clarksville and Gordonsville, Tenn. This represents the company’s first U.S. locations and the largest single private corporate investment made in state history.
“Korea Zinc’s decision to build a world-class critical minerals refinery in our state is not just an economic victory – it is a geostrategic one that directly supports President Trump’s efforts to restore American economic security in partnership with trusted allies, like South Korea,” said Sen. Bill Hagerty (R-Tenn.).
“This project will expand the United States’ capacity to produce the minerals that power our advanced industries and defense capabilities, strengthening national security while delivering high-paying jobs for hundreds of Tennessee families.”
As part of its production efforts, Korea Zinc will create 420 new jobs in Montgomery County and an additional 320 jobs in Smith County over the next five years. The multi-county project includes the construction of a new facility in Clarksville, which will house the company’s U.S. headquarters and manufacturing operations. In Gordonsville, the company plans to reopen the former Nyrstar mine, which has been idle since 2023.
With Korea Zinc’s investment, South Korea will become Tennessee’s top international partner for capital invested statewide since 2019.
Source: Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development