Korea Zinc, Alta partner on REE recycling to scale magnet recovery in 2027

Korea Zinc

Korea Zinc, Alta partner on REE recycling to build a new pathway for rare earth supply. The venture will recover rare earth elements from end-of-life permanent magnets. As a result, it targets domestic production of rare earth oxides starting in 2027.

Korea Zinc, Alta partner on REE recycling with an initial capacity of 100 metric tonnes per year. The partners plan to combine Korea Zinc’s metals processing and recycling capabilities with Alta’s mineral separation platform. Meanwhile, the focus on spent magnets aligns with rising demand for NdPr and heavy rare earths in EVs and wind power.

Why end-of-life magnets matter for rare earth supply chains

End-of-life magnets offer a concentrated feedstock compared with many primary ores. The material also bypasses long lead times tied to mine permitting and separation plants. Therefore, magnet recycling can shorten supply chains and reduce exposure to export controls.

Domestic rare earth oxides can support downstream steps like metal-making and magnet manufacturing. However, consistent scrap collection and sorting remains the hard part. As a result, partnerships often succeed or fail based on feedstock access and quality control.

Korea Zinc’s US footprint strengthens the execution case

Korea Zinc already operates US recycling assets through its Pedal Point subsidiary. Those facilities handle electronic waste and related complex streams. Meanwhile, the company has also announced a major US smelter investment in Tennessee, signaling a broader push into local non-ferrous processing.

The Alta partnership fits this strategy by adding rare earths to the recycling value chain. Therefore, the venture could become a platform for scaling beyond the initial 100 t/yr. However, ramp-up will depend on separation yields, impurity management, and customer qualification.

The Metalnomist Commentary

This deal highlights how recycling is becoming the fastest route to non-Chinese rare earth availability. However, success will hinge on building a reliable magnet collection network. The winners will be the teams that control feedstock and produce consistent oxide quality.