Wonju City Supports IoT Device Installation for Small Businesses to Improve Air Quality
Wonju City, Gangwon-do, is providing financial support to small businesses for the installation of Internet of Things (IoT) measuring devices. This initiative aims to assist businesses comply with updated environmental regulations and contribute to improved air quality in the region, including the reduction of fine dust.
Mandatory IoT Device Installation
The revision of the Clean Air Conservation Act in May 2022 mandated that workplaces with type 4 and 5 air emissions facilities install IoT measuring devices. These devices monitor the operation of pollution prevention facilities and transmit data to the ‘Green Link’ air emissions facility management system. Businesses with extended installation deadlines must complete the process by the conclude of December 2026.
Financial Support Details
Wonju City has allocated 86 million won for this support project. Eligible small businesses can receive assistance covering up to 60% of the IoT device installation costs. Applications, along with the required documentation, can be submitted to the City Hall Climate Response Department starting March 23, 2026.
City Official Statement
Maeng Soon-jae, head of the climate response department, stated that the support project is intended to alleviate the financial burden on businesses while simultaneously improving the air environment and reducing fine dust levels.
Recent Industrial Developments in Wonju
This initiative follows a period of significant industrial growth in Wonju. According to Yonhap News, construction has commenced for three semiconductor companies attracted to the city following the inauguration of the 8th local election government. DS Techno began construction of its Munmak plant in January 2025, with completion expected by March 2026 and plans to invest an additional KRW 50 billion and hire 110 employees by 2030 [Invest Korea]. Entegris Korea and GQL have also initiated construction projects, investing KRW 8.5 billion and KRW 47 billion respectively, and creating 55 and 45 new jobs [Invest Korea]. Wonju is actively pursuing cooperation with technology companies like NVIDIA to become a future artificial intelligence (AI) city [MK Korea].
Further Investment in Local Economy
In May 2025, Gangwon State and Wonju-si signed an investment agreement with Yedamwoo, a Korean beef meat processing company, for the relocation of its headquarters to Wonju Industrial City, representing an investment of KRW 11.9 billion [Kotra].