Big Jobs, Big Metals: Korea Zinc Hits TN!
Tennessee is making a serious play in the global metals and manufacturing arena. South Korean metals powerhouse Korea Zinc has chosen the Volunteer State for its first U.S. operations, committing a staggering $6.6 billion investment. It is the largest private corporate investment in Tennessee history, putting the state squarely in the national conversation around critical minerals, advanced manufacturing, and long-term economic strategy.
The plan is ambitious and very local. A new headquarters and production facility is headed to Clarksville, while a repurposed mine site in Gordonsville within Smith County will focus on processing critical minerals. Together, the sites are expected to create around 740 jobs over the next five years, with ripple effects for construction crews, logistics providers, suppliers, and small businesses that support large industrial operations.
Why Tennessee Won the Bid
State officials have been clear that this deal did not land by accident: Tennessee’s deep bench of skilled workers, strong transportation infrastructure, and track record of landing global manufacturers all played a role. Just as important, the state has spent years building relationships with international companies, particularly in South Korea, where Tennessee already has strong automotive and manufacturing ties.
For communities like Clarksville and Smith County, the impact goes beyond job numbers. This project signals confidence in rural and mid-sized markets, while also strengthening domestic supply chains for minerals used in advanced manufacturing and defense industries: a priority that has taken on new urgency nationwide.
What Happens Next
The timeline is measured but meaningful. Site preparation is expected to begin in 2026, with phased operations starting around 2029. That runway gives local governments, workforce programs, and suppliers time to prepare and plug in.
For Tennessee, this is not just a big win, but a statement about where the state is headed: big metals, big jobs, and a global player choosing Tennessee as home base for its American future.
Explore the companies powering Tennessee’s manufacturing scene at guidetotennessee.com/manufacturing.
