EXHIBIT 99
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          Kulicke & Soffa Sets Terms of Convertible Subordinated Notes
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Willow Grove, PA--December 9, 1999--Kulicke & Soffa Industries Inc. (Nasdaq:
KLIC) today announced the terms of the Convertible Subordinated Notes ("Notes")
due December 2006 offered through a private placement to qualified institutional
investors and institutional accredited investors. The principal amount of the
offered Notes has been increased from $125 million to $150 million with a $25
million over-allotment option.

The Notes will bear interest at an annual interest rate of 4 3/4% and will be
convertible into common shares of KLIC at a conversion price of $45.80 per
share.

This news release does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an
offer to buy the securities. The securities to be offered will not be registered
under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or applicable state securities
laws, and may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration
under the Securities Act and applicable state securities laws or available
exemptions from such registration requirements.

Kulicke & Soffa is the world's largest supplier of semiconductor assembly
equipment. The Company serves the integrated circuit assembly market with a
product line that includes wire bonding, die bonding, wafer dicing and factory
automation equipment, as well as expendable tools and materials, including
bonding wire, capillaries, wedges, die collets and saw blades, and has sales and
service facilities worldwide. It also has investments in next generation
packaging technology.



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