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Park Systems Corporation
Unraveling the History of Atomic Force Microscopy
Our comprehensive portfolio features cutting-edge technologies, including atomic force microscopy (AFM) with proprietary True Non-Contact™ imaging, white light interferometry (WLI) for nanometer-scale surface analysis, nano-infrared spectroscopy (nano-IR) for chemical characterization, imaging spectroscopic ellipsometry (ISE) for thin film measurement, and digital holographic microscopy (DHM) for advanced 3D profiling.
At the forefront of innovation, Park Systems has redefined nanoscale measurement through groundbreaking developments such as high-precision 3D metrology systems and fully automated AFM solutions, all engineered to meet the exacting requirements of both cutting-edge research and high-volume industrial applications.
At the forefront of innovation, Park Systems has redefined nanoscale measurement through groundbreaking developments such as high-precision 3D metrology systems and fully automated AFM solutions, all engineered to meet the exacting requirements of both cutting-edge research and high-volume industrial applications.
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History
1982 - 1996
The advent and commercialization of AFM
In 1985, Sang-il Park was a PhD student on Professor Calvin Quate’s team at Stanford, which co-invented atomic force microscopy (AFM) with IBM. After graduating in 1988, Dr. Park founded Park Scientific Instruments (PSI) to commercialize AFM. PSI launched several AFM products for academia and industry before being acquired by Thermo Spectra in 1997.
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1997 - 2007
The next generation AFM and Park Systems
Seeing the potential of AFM, Dr. Park returned to Korea and founded Park Systems (formerly PSIA). His goal was to develop next-generation AFM that solved issues like bowed images and data artifacts caused by crosstalk, and to realize True Non-Contact AFM.
Park Systems later developed industrial AFM systems, successfully selling them to major data storage companies. This led to the development of automated AFM for the semiconductor industry.
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2008 - 2015
Market lead and the IPO
Park Systems grew quickly by launching new AFM series and expanding its product range—from research desktops to fully automated systems with robotic arms.
In 2015, it signed its first Joint Development Project (JDP) with imec, a global leader in nanoelectronics R&D, and joined imec’s Industrial Affiliation Program (IIAP). A second JDP followed, focusing on next-generation in-line AFM metrology for semiconductors. Together, they developed new solutions and delivered 200 in-line AFM units to major chipmakers.
In the same year, Park Systems received AA ratings from two financial agencies and became the first AFM company listed on the KOSDAQ.
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2016 - 2023
Accelerated growth
Park Systems expanded globally by opening regional headquarters in Germany, UK, France, Singapore, India, China, Taiwan, and Mexico—adding to its presence in Korea, Japan, and the US.
Its strong entry into semiconductor fabs helped it become the world’s leading AFM manufacturer. In 2020, Forbes named it one of Asia’s top 200 companies under $1 billion.
In 2022, Park Systems broadened its portfolio by acquiring Accurion GmbH, a German maker of imaging spectroscopic ellipsometers and vibration isolation systems.
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Outlook 2025 and 2030
Long-term growth opportunities
Park Systems continuously advances its product roadmap and strengthens product synergy through strategic acquisitions and investments. Its comprehensive automated AFM solutions play a key role in semiconductor and display manufacturing, failure analysis, and various industrial applications. By aligning its advanced nanometrology portfolio with evolving industry demands, Park Systems is well-positioned for sustained long-term growth and continued leadership in high-precision metrology.
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Key Facts at a Glance
Park Systems achieved a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 25% between 2015 and 2023, securing its position as the global leader in AFM. The company currently has a sales network spanning over 30 countries with 500+ employees, with more than 31% of them engaged in R&D.
25%
Revenue Compounded Growth
FY2015 - FY2023
31%
R&D Investment
Manpower of headcount
NO. 1
AFM Market Share
2023 Global AFM market leader
>1.2 trillion
Market Capitalization
Currency in KRW (Dec 31, 2023)
63 sites
Global Network
16 Direct offices
Forbes Asia's 200
Recognition
Named to Forbes Asia's 200 listing in 2020/2023
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63 sites, 16 Direct offices
Global Network
Park Systems boasts a significant global network, with offices and partners spanning in the Americas, Europe, Asia, and Oceania.
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