South Korean metal manufacturer announces $6.6B investment to bring hundreds of jobs, new facilities to TN

CLARKSVILLE, Tenn. (WSMV) - A $6.6 billion manufacturing investment from Korea Zinc is coming to Tennessee.

This investment is reportedly the state’s largest direct foreign investment in Tennessee history.

The new production facilities from the South Korean metal manufacturer will be coming to Clarksville and Gordonsville. The company’s production efforts will bring the following to Tennessee:

420 new jobs in Montgomery County
An additional 320 jobs in Smith County over the next five years

“The multi-county project comprises construction of a new facility in Clarksville that will house the company’s U.S. headquarters as well as manufacturing operations,” the state reports.

“In Gordonsville, the company plans to reopen a former mine, bringing back lost jobs and industry to the community.”

Latest: Nearly 1,000 jobs coming to Clarksville as part of $90M investment from branch of Japanese manufacturer

This move also builds upon agreements announced by the White House on Sunday to fulfill some departments within the federal government’s needs for the company’s mineral products.

“Korea Zinc’s refining plays a vital role in supporting advanced military technology and safeguarding national and international security by reducing the nation’s dependence on China for critical minerals,” the state added.

Montgomery County touted the following economic impact and benefits for the community:

$288.6 million net benefit to Montgomery County over 20 years
- Montgomery County: $210M
- Clarksville-Montgomery County School System: $78M
420 new direct high-wage jobs with salaries ranging from $83,000-$196,000
320 retained jobs at existing operations
740 total direct jobs at the expanded facility
1,464 total jobs including spin-off employment through suppliers, contractors, and supporting services