Few people can claim to have witnessed the launch of two large scale high-tech facilities in their careers, and perhaps even fewer have experienced this within such a short timeframe. Péter Fónagy, a process engineer leader at SK On Hungary, was part of the opening team in Komárom and played a pivotal role in the early days of the Iváncsa plant. Now, with the Iváncsa plant having commenced mass production earlier this year, we sat down with Péter to reflect on his journey and the challenges and innovations that have marked this exciting chapter in his career. *Please note: This interview has been edited for clarity and conciseness from its original publication in SK On's Magazine 2023.   Q1. In 2018, you applied to SK’s Komárom factory as an engineer, even though the company had not yet established a presence in Hungary. What drew you to this opportunity? I was drawn to SK for two main reasons. First, the product itself captivated me. Battery manufacturing is a field I find incredibly fascinating, and I often read about it in my spare time. As a chemical engineer, I have a strong interest in both materials and technology. I wanted to work in an environment where I could observe large-scale battery manufacturing in mass production, as that's what truly intrigues me. At SK, I'm not confined to a lab; I'm actively engaged in the field. The second reason was the unique opportunity to be part of a team from the very beginning. Being involved in the startup phase of a new facility offers numerous advantages and opportunities for growth and development.   Q2. Could you share with us some experiences from being part of the initial team at SK On Hungary’s factories? Being an engineer at a new facility offers significantly more flexibility than working in an established factory. It was rewarding to have a say in how things are done, to implement my ideas, and to improve production efficiency. While there were guiding principles that shape our direction, the environment was much more open. Being involved from the beginning gave me a broader knowledge base and a deeper understanding of the processes. Additionally, joining the initial team allowed me to engage in activities I might not have experienced otherwise, such as overseeing the installation of machinery, procuring necessary equipment, and participating in the selection and training of colleagues. These experiences have been invaluable to my professional growth.   Q3. When comparing the construction projects in Komárom and Iváncsa, what similarities and differences have you observed? Looking back, in Komárom, we faced challenges due to the heat, while in Iváncsa, the pace picked up during the winter. We had to adapt to these extreme weather conditions, which is the first thing that comes to mind from the construction site. Regarding the factories themselves, Iváncsa is on a much larger site, although the Komárom plant is also substantial. It is worth noting that the Komárom plant is modeled after the one in Seosan, whereas Iváncsa presents a completely different situation, not only in terms of size. While the core battery production processes remain the same, Iváncsa features numerous innovations in equipment and technology. This reflects the rapid revolution of the industry, despite the short time span between the start of these two projects.   Q4. What does a typical day look like for a process engineer? Now that the Iváncsa plant is in full operation, my primary responsibility is to ensure that the batteries produced are of high quality. Working closely with my colleagues, we analyze faults, identify their causes, and develop solutions. In battery production, there is often a significant time gap between processes, and certain defects may only become apparent at later stages. This is especially relevant in my area of expertise. Drawing on my experience in Komárom and now in Iváncsa, I strive to minimize the likelihood of defective components leaving the Electrode process and to detect defects as early as possible.   Q5. What motivates you in your everyday life? Since we spend a significant portion of our weekdays working, it's crucial to find our work both enjoyable and interesting—and for me, it certainly is. I have a strong appreciation for well-functioning systems and enjoy tackling challenges, which is one reason I joined the Iváncsa plant. Witnessing the rapid development of technology has always inspired me. What truly satisfies me is the motivation and excitement I feel about going to work each day. I am driven by the challenges and the opportunity to be part of a dynamic and innovative environment.   ■ Related articles - Embracing challenges: Adrian Kędziak’s run toward growth and excellence at SK hi-tech battery materials Poland - Shifts and shutters: How Łukasz Grudzień balances work at SKBMP with his love for dog photography - [SKinno People] Bela Toth, Server Engineer, SK Battery Hungary

At SK hi-tech battery materials Poland, an overseas subsidiary of SK IE Technology, we take pride in our dedicated company members who drive innovation and excellence. Today, we are pleased to introduce Adrian Kędziak, a Utility Technician whose commitment to his work exemplifies the values of our organization. Adrian's professional journey is marked by his ability to master complex, cutting-edge machinery, demonstrating a continuous pursuit of technical excellence. Beyond his technical skills, Adrian is passionate about running and is preparing to participate in a triathlon, embodying the spirit of perseverance and personal growth. We invite you to watch a brief interview with Adrian, where he shares insights into his work and personal journey. His story is a testament to how challenges can be transformed into opportunities for development and inspiration.      ■ Related articles - Shifts and shutters: How Łukasz Grudzień balances work at SKBMP with his love for dog photography - [SKinno People] Zaneta Kaniecka, HR Specialist, SK hi-tech battery materials Poland, SK IE Technology

  Have you ever heard the story of a boy who tried to save starfish? Frequently mentioned by social activists, this tale comes from the mid-20th-century essay "The Star Thrower" by renowned anthropologist Loren Eiseley. It tells the story of a boy who, despite the odds, persistently throws starfish washed ashore back into the sea, ultimately saving many. Though the story has been retold over time with slight variations, its central message remains: the small actions we take in our daily lives can make a significant difference to others and serve as a powerful force for change in the world. SK Innovation and its affiliates are committed to fostering a sustainable future through ongoing social contribution efforts. Recognizing the diverse needs of communities and groups that require attention and support, the company works closely with its employees to implement a variety of CSR (Corporate Social Responsibility) programs. Driven by sincerity, let’s take a moment to reflect on the impactful activities led by SK Innovation and its affiliates in the second half of 2024. *CSR (Corporate Social Responsibility): Voluntary activities companies undertake to positively impact society and the environment, beyond their legal and economic obligations.   ■ Leading by Example: Company-Wide Volunteer Commitment   SK Innovation and its affiliates launched Volunteer Week (V-Week), a focused initiative involving all members across domestic and international sites. From October 21 to November 1, participants engaged in diverse activities, including supporting elderly individuals living alone, aiding those with developmental disabilities, environmental cleanups, blood donations, pro bono work, and region-specific projects. During this H2 V-Week, team members from SK Innovation, SK Energy, SK Geo Centric, SK On, and other affiliates collectively contributed a remarkable 11,000 volunteer hours within South Korea.   Park Sang-kyu, CEO of SK Innovation and Head of SK Innovation Affiliates’ Volunteer Group, demonstrated genuine leadership by joining over 60 members in a blood donation campaign, underscoring his commitment to social responsibility. Kim Wone-kee, CEO of SK Enmove, took part in the "Guardians of Biodiversity,” which focuses on preserving the environment. This program involves removing invasive species that threaten ecosystems and planting seeds to foster new life. Expanding on efforts from earlier this year, activities took place in Seoul's Jamwon Hangang Park and Yuseongcheon in Daejeon. Removed plants were repurposed into compost, adding further value to the initiative. To make the experience more engaging, participants launched "flower seed airplanes" made of water-soluble paper and "seed bombs" containing seeds in soil balls, helping seeds naturally take root. Over five weeks, approximately 380 employees participated, learning about nature through hands-on restoration efforts. Myeong Seong, CEO of SK Earthon, visited elderly individuals living alone with team members, creating joyful memories for them. He also frequently participated in the "Meal Sharing" initiative, a free meal distribution program, showcasing his leadership in promoting social value creation. These efforts extended beyond V-Week, continuing throughout the second half of the year across various business sites. Roh Sang-goo, CEO of SK Incheon Petrochem, personally served meals to seniors during a summer healthy meal-sharing event and took part in community-driven initiatives like the Kimjang Festival in Incheon and the Simgokcheon river cleanup, further embodying the spirit of giving back.   Myeong Seong | CEO of SK Earthon We all have the desire to help others, and we also share the ambition to excel in the tasks entrusted to us. With that in mind, I encourage you to explore the various volunteer opportunities available within our company alongside your colleagues.  When focusing solely on our responsibilities, we may sometimes lose sight of the bigger picture. Understanding what our customers truly want begins with the ability to empathize and put ourselves in their shoes. In simple terms, it's about wanting them to succeed and be happy. Engaging in volunteer activities allows us to experience the desire to assist and bring joy to others, which, in turn, enhances our ability to empathize. It naturally provides us with opportunities to practice and deepen our empathy. I believe that this heightened sense of empathy can also be applied to our professional roles. It's up to you! By participating with like-minded colleagues, you can enjoy a brief but fulfilling time this fall. If you're starting a project with new team members, consider kicking things off with a volunteer activity. This approach not only sets a positive tone from the beginning but can also lead to successful outcomes.   ■ Empowering Growth: Supporting Individuals with Developmental Disabilities   Since 2017, SK Innovation and its affiliates have been hosting the Great Music Festival (GMF) to support the social independence of individuals with developmental disabilities. On October 24, the 8th GMF took place at the COEX Auditorium in Seoul, where six finalist teams showcased their musical talents. Myeong Seong, CEO of SK Earthon, along with members from SK Innovation affiliates, attended the event, uniting their voices to encourage these individuals in pursuing their dreams.   The "Happy Dream" program, which has supported children with developmental disabilities since 2016, received a revamp this year, drawing increased interest and participation from employees. The activities included a specialized handball curriculum developed in collaboration with the SK Sugar Gliders (SK’s women’s handball team) and faculty from the Korea National Sport University’s Special Physical Education Department, alongside movie screenings and field trips. Approximately 450 employees participated, fostering communication and meaningful connections with the children. "Cinema Christmas" was another highlight, where children with developmental disabilities from special education schools in Seoul and Daejeon were paired with employees to enjoy animated movies, creating a memorable day for the children. In November, SK Sugar Gliders and SK Enmove employees plan to host a handball class aimed at enhancing the children’s physical abilities and social skills. Kim Wone-kee, CEO of SK Enmove, along with other employees, will participate as assistant instructors, enriching the experience for the children even further.   ■ Empowering Dreams: Giving Children the Wings to Soar On July 22, SK Innovation celebrated the 20th anniversary of SK Volunteer Group with a ceremony at the SK Seorin Building in Seoul’s Jongno District. This event was a testament to the unwavering dedication of SK Innovation’s employees to volunteerism over the past two decades. During the ceremony, employees assembled over 1,000 "Happy Dream Boxes" filled with essentials for children at risk of hunger. Additionally, on July 22 and 23, many employees participated in a blood donation campaign, embodying the spirit of giving back to the community.   In collaboration with the Make-A-Wish Foundation, SK Innovation and its affiliates launched the "Wish Maker" program, which aims to positively impact the lives of children with critical illnesses by fulfilling their wishes. This year, 19 teams and over 130 employees took on the role of "Wish Angels," granting wishes and offering hope and courage to both the children and their families. The company is also advancing the "Happy Dream Library" project, designed to bridge the educational gap for children in rural areas and enhance their access to knowledge and information. Libraries are being established in 15 community centers nationwide, with reading instructors on hand to nurture a love for books among children. As part of this initiative, SK Innovation and its affiliates hosted a book donation campaign in September, encouraging employees to contribute to this heartfelt cause.   ■ Creating Meaningful Memories: Family-Focused Volunteering   To help the next generation understand and practice the value of giving, SK Innovation and its affiliates offer volunteer programs that allow employees to participate alongside their families. One such initiative is “Voluntour,” a blend of "volunteer" and "tour," which involves a volunteer-focused travel experience for employees and their families. During a Voluntour trip to Yeoju, Gyeonggi Province in September, employees and their children engaged in meaningful activities such as preparing meals and organizing birthday celebrations for local seniors. These experiences fostered a deeper sense of solidarity with the community. Following a special baking class in the first half of the year, a second session was held on October 19 at a cooking studio in Sinchon, Seoul. This event featured "Baking Cookies, Just The Way They Are" with Yoo Yeon-su, a former player for K League 1’s Jeju United FC, aimed at raising awareness about disabilities. Just as we all have different heights, participants learned that people with disabilities are unique individuals with their own characteristics by creating cookies in various doll shapes. Around 40 family members of SK Innovation employees joined the class, gaining a deeper appreciation for diversity and learning to embrace differences.   ■ Expanding Global Impact: SK Innovation Group's Positive Influence Global employees at 32 overseas operation sites across 17 countries are consistently engaged in social contribution activities. Despite differences in language and culture, they unite under a shared sense of sincerity to spread warmth worldwide through initiatives such as environmental cleanups, blood donations, and charitable contributions.   At SK Earthon’s Ho Chi Minh branch, employees are involved in the "Library of Dreams" project aimed at fostering healthy reading habits among children across Vietnam. On the other side of the globe, in the United States, SK Geo Centric Americas supported meal-sharing initiatives to aid those experiencing homelessness, and SK Enmove Americas contributed to local Food Banks, offering help to neighbors in need. ILBOC (Iberian Lube Base Oils Company), a joint venture between SK Enmove and the global energy company Repsol, has provided electronic devices to support the digitization of files and teaching materials for Agrupación Musical La Unión, a nonprofit music school. Additionally, the company has supported a summer camp organized by a children’s association, enabling individuals with cognitive disabilities to enjoy recreational and cultural experiences during the holiday season Patra SK, a joint venture between SK Enmove and Indonesia's state-owned oil company Pertamina, operates over ten CSR programs designed to support local communities. These initiatives encompass a wide range of activities, including scholarships, technical training, renovation of community facilities, and environmental improvements at orphanages.   ■ Collective Actions Drive Changes Around the World This year, approximately 10,000 executives and employees from SK Innovation and its affiliates, both domestically and internationally, participated in a wide array of volunteer activities, making a significant positive impact worldwide. SK Innovation has also continued its "1% Happiness Sharing Fund" initiative, where employees donate 1% of their monthly base salary, matched by the company through a matching grant program. By October, this fund had amassed KRW 2.8 billion, facilitating ongoing support for initiatives like covering medical expenses for children with severe illnesses, such as pediatric cancer, and providing or repairing prosthetics. This year, the fund expanded its reach to further support future generations, including new programs for young adults preparing for independence, assistance for children in family care situations, wish fulfillment for children with critical illnesses, and the establishment of libraries at regional community centers. SK Innovation and its affiliates have united with a shared mission, combining volunteerism and social contribution initiatives funded by donations to create a positive societal impact.   Eom Sang-hong | SK Innovation CSR Team Leader I was deeply moved by the passion and sincerity demonstrated by members of SK Innovation affiliates in their volunteer activities throughout the year. In challenging times, I believe true courage and the pride of our corporate culture are demonstrated by looking beyond our own difficulties and extending a helping hand to those in greater need. With our company’s volunteer slogan, ‘Standing together, make it better,’ I hope we continue to embody the One Team Spirit of SK Innovation, working together to create sustainable happiness for local communities and stakeholders.   The social contribution efforts of SK Innovation and its affiliates go beyond mere numbers, embodying a profound commitment to meaningful change. These initiatives are a testament to the sincere dedication of employees and symbolize a proactive vision for a brighter future. The company remains committed to ensuring that more members of society can experience happiness, unwavering in its pursuit of significant and lasting change.   ■ Related articles - SK Innovation affiliates’ volunteer activities in H1 2024: “Stand together, make it better!” – Consistent efforts for big changes - A heartfelt journey with “Wish Makers”: Turning dreams and hope into reality - “Growing together with social enterprises through pro bono,” stories shared by SK Innovation CSR manager - The Great Music Festival in Hungary: “Breaking boundaries and discovering new abilities through music”