IonicRE and DNA Link Partner to Build Western Rare Earth Supply Chain

IonicRE

Belfast-to-Korea E-Waste Recycling Pipeline Targets Permanent Magnet Independence

Ionic Rare Earths (IonicRE) has entered into a non-binding agreement with South Korea-based DNA Link to establish a circular rare earth supply chain. The partnership will center around recycling electronic waste into high-value rare earth oxides for use in permanent magnet manufacturing.

Under the deal, DNA Link will supply swarf and end-of-life magnet waste to Ionic Technologies, IonicRE’s UK-based subsidiary. The Belfast facility currently processes 30 tonnes per year (t/yr) of waste material, yielding approximately 10 t/yr of rare earth oxides, primarily from neodymium, praseodymium, and dysprosium.

Rare Earth Oxides to Feed South Korean Magnet Facility

Once processed in Belfast, the rare earth oxides will be shipped to DNA Link’s upcoming permanent magnet facility in Yesan, South Korea. Slated to launch operations by late 2025, the plant will produce 1,000 t/yr of neodymium-iron-boron (NdFeB) magnets—a core material in electric motors, wind turbines, and electronics.

This vertically integrated approach aligns with growing geopolitical efforts to reduce dependence on Chinese rare earth supply. Both companies aim to build similar permanent magnet manufacturing capabilities in the United States, expanding their reach across critical Western markets.

Strategic Collaboration Targets Closed-Loop Rare Earth Ecosystem

The deal emphasizes the growing urgency to secure sustainable and resilient rare earth supply chains outside of China. By focusing on recycled feedstock, IonicRE and DNA Link are promoting environmental responsibility while ensuring access to strategic minerals essential to the energy transition.

“This partnership embodies our shared vision of establishing a full rare earth supply chain within western countries,” said Jun Young Lee, CEO of DNA Link. “It offers alternative solutions to dependency on China.”

With rare earth magnets critical to defense, automotive, and clean energy sectors, this collaboration positions both firms to play a pivotal role in reshaping global supply chains.