2 workers exposed to radiation at Samsung's chip plant in S. Korea

Samsung Electronics Co. said Wednesday two workers at one of its chip manufacturing facilities in South Korea were recently exposed to radiation and a government-led investigation is underway.

The two workers in the chip production line of Samsung's Giheung Campus in Yongin, 42 kilometers south of Seoul, experienced X-ray exposure on their hands Monday, the company said in a text message response to reporter inquires.

The company said it became aware of the incident Tuesday when the workers reported swollen fingers and red spots on their hands. It then immediately reported the case to the Nuclear Safety and Security Commission based on a relevant regulation.

"They have undergone follow-up tests, and Samsung is wholeheartedly supporting their treatment and recovery," a company spokesperson said.

On Wednesday, the nuclear commission sent officials to the production line to investigate what caused the incident. It also ordered the suspension of the radiation generator on the line.

Blood test results showed the two workers were not affected by the radiation exposure and they will receive outpatient treatment. They also took a chromosome abnormality test, according to the commission.

The world's largest chipmaker said it will fully cooperate with all relevant authorities and ensure prevention of any reoccurrences.

Samsung has five semiconductor operations in South Korea -- Giheung, Hwaseong, Pyeongtaek, Onyang and Cheonan -- and four manufacturing sites in the United States and China -- Austin, Suzhou, Tianjin and Xi'an. It is currently building a plant worth about $40 billion in Taylor, Texas.