HJWave, Advancing as a ‘Physical AI’ Technology Company with mmWave RF Technology

| HJWave's representative interview with Yoo Tae-Hwan

HJWave, a company that started as a specialized component manufacturer focused on millimeter-wave (mmWave, 30-300 GHz) RF technology, is now transitioning into a technology firm targeting the ‘Physical AI’ era. The company is focusing on two pillars: core technologies for high-performance cognitive sensors and device manufacturing capabilities. We sat down with CEO Yoo Tae-hwan to discuss the company's vision and strategy.

Q: How is HJWave preparing for the Physical AI era, and what role does the 3D waveguide antenna play?

In the Physical AI era, HJWave provides 3D waveguide antennas used in high-performance cognitive radar through millimeter-wave RF design. These antennas serve as the ‘eyes’ in the Physical AI environment, playing a crucial role in autonomous driving, robotics, and industrial automation.

A 'radar' is a core sensor that functions even in bad weather or at night. Among these, waveguide antennas contribute to improving radar performance by efficiently controlling high frequencies, enabling wideband and wide-angle detection. This advanced cognitive sensor technology, implemented in a compact, lightweight, and high-performance structure, is a key component in physical AI systems.

Q: What are the strengths of HJWave’s hardware production capabilities?

HJ Wave possesses proprietary RF design technology and expertise in developing radar-based perception sensors. In particular, the company mass-produces a product lineup utilizing 77GHz millimeter-wave radar sensors capable of front and side detection as well as V2X communication, and is steadily building experience in supplying these products to major domestic and international clients.

Operating its own factories in Yongin and Ansan, HJWave runs a high-quality production system based on SMT, assembly, testing, and EOL equipment. The company holds IATF16949 and Hyundai/Kia SQ certifications, ensuring a quality management system that meets automotive component standards. As a materials and parts specialist, HJWave is poised to play a critical role in advancing Physical AI with a consistent approach from product design to mass production.

Q: Does HJWave have a strategy for expanding into the global market and other industries?

HJWave is currently conducting technology reviews and pre-production collaborations with global automotive and sensor companies in Japan, Europe, and North America. The company is also establishing global partnerships and localization strategies to enhance its capabilities in local certifications and customer engagement. Additionally, HJWave is expanding into the high-frequency device market, moving beyond core millimeter-wave frequencies like 24 GHz, 60 GHz, 77 GHz, and 79 GHz to next-generation ultra-high-frequency bands, including 140 GHz, based on its design and manufacturing expertise.

Q. You mentioned strengthening accountable management through organizational restructuring. Can you elaborate on the specifics?

HJWave is establishing a full-fledged accountable management system centered around C-level executives and Business Unit (BU) leaders through organizational restructuring. The company plans to systematize its corporate management while maintaining its core technological philosophy and vision. The new structure is designed to empower experts in each field to take the lead with clear responsibilities. Moving forward, we aim to continue leading the physical AI hardware sector as a talent-driven organization that combines professional expertise with strong execution capabilities.

Q. Do you have any financial strategies or plans for new businesses?

We recently secured new investment from the Korea Technology Finance Corporation through a conditional equity conversion agreement, which served as a validation of both our technological capabilities and business potential. This follows two previous investment rounds in which we attracted investors such as Korea Development Bank, Industrial Bank of Korea, and LB Investment. With this latest investment, we have maintained strong financial stability, raising a cumulative total of 53.6 billion KRW. We are projecting consolidated revenue of 40 billion KRW for this year.

Starting this year, we are restructuring our business to prioritize profitability over top-line growth. Alongside structural improvements to our legacy businesses, we are actively exploring new future growth engines. In addition, we are focusing on expanding into cross-industry sectors and global markets to drive the next phase of growth.