Due to the inherently poor adhesion strength of Cu-based leadframe/EMC(Epoxy Molding Compound) interface, popcorn-cracking phenomena of thin plastic packages frequently occur during the solder reflow process. In this study, in order to enhance the adhesion strength of Cu-based leadframe/EMC interface, brown-oxide layer was formed on the leadframe surface by immersing of leadframe sheets in hot alkaline solution, and the adhesion strength of leadframe/EMC interface was measured by using SDCB(Sandwiched Double Cantilever Beam) and SBN(Sandwiched Brazil-Nut) specimens. Results showed that brown oxide treatment of leadframe introduced fine acicular CuO crystals on the leadframe surface and improved the adhesion strength of leadframe/EMC interface. Enhancement of adhesion strength was directly related to the thickening kinetics of oxide layer. This might be due to the mechanical interlocking of fine acicular CuO crystals into EMC.