MIJ Accelerates Global Expansion—From Tinnitus Treatment Devices to Semiconductors

https://www.uln.co.kr/news/articleView.html?idxno=1462

Innovation in Tinnitus Care

Fusion of Semiconductor & Medical Technologies

Rapid Progress Toward Global Markets

ⓒMIJ / MIJ Headquarters

As Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province pushes semiconductors and bio-health as core future growth industries, MIJ, headquartered in Chuncheon, is emerging as a representative success case.

The company has expanded its defense network by participating as a partner company in the Defense Venture Center, and is also pursuing collaboration with Kangwon National University through the RISE program. This region–industry cooperation is helping lay the groundwork for the growth of next-generation industries.

MIJ is gaining particular attention in the medical device sector. Its tinnitus treatment device, ETEREO TC Square, is a bone-conduction headset that adheres to the mastoid (the bone behind the ear). By reducing ear fatigue and allowing long-term wear, it significantly improves treatment adherence, and delivers personalized adaptive sound through its dedicated management platform. MIJ is developing a global version of the device with a target of FDA approval in 2026.

The company is also expanding its digital healthcare strategy. MIJ plans to launch an affordable smart hearing-assist device in the OTC market next year, incorporating AI-based signal processing and app connectivity—aiming to reshape the landscape of portable hearing-assist solutions.

At the same time, MIJ is developing a bio-semiconductor POCT solution, enabling glycated albumin (GA) measurement within minutes using a small blood sample. As GA provides a shorter-term glycemic indicator than HbA1c, this technology could redefine diabetes management.

On the semiconductor front, MIJ is cultivating its IP/FPGA solutions as a second growth engine.

Leveraging its in-house research lab’s library of 181 IP cores, the company is preparing a diverse lineup of products including modules for medical imaging and military communication equipment, sensor-interface SoMs for IoT devices, and encryption-enabled communication SoCs.

The FPGA-based AI edge board ‘PotatoPi’ adopts a Raspberry Pi–compatible form factor, targeting markets ranging from education to industrial embedded applications, and will be rolled out alongside an open-source ecosystem.

This multifaceted strategy has earned MIJ international recognition. The company was named one of Fortune Korea’s “Top 40 Healthcare Innovators in Korea” this year, signaling strong potential for global expansion.

Industry observers are watching closely to see whether MIJ’s convergence-driven business model—aligned with regional strategic industries—can establish a presence not only in Korea but also on the global stage.

Reporter: Ki-Hoon Kim
Source: Yonhap Local News (https://www.uln.co.kr)