Korea Zinc to Invest $6.6B in U.S. Critical Minerals Project

Published: Apr 8, 2026 16:29

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South Korea’s Korea Zinc plans to invest $6.6 billion to develop a major critical minerals smelter and U.S. headquarters in Tennessee, marking the state’s largest-ever private investment. The project will span Clarksville and Gordonsville, including a new manufacturing facility and the reopening of a former mine.
The integrated smelter will produce 13 nonferrous metals such as zinc, copper, and lead, supporting key industries including defense, aerospace, and automotive. The project is expected to create over 740 jobs and reduce U.S. reliance on China for critical minerals. Developed in partnership with the U.S. government, which may take a 40% stake, construction is scheduled to begin in 2027, with site preparation starting in 2026.

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