NVIDIA CEO Jensen Huang has delivered a bold message regarding South Korea.
On June 2, Huang spoke with South Korean reporters during the Korea Partner Night event at NVIDIA's annual technology showcase, GTC Taipei 2026, held at the Taipei Music Center in Taiwan.
Huang stated, "If South Korea wants, we can hold NVIDIA's flagship event, GTC, in Korea," while also specifically mentioning robotics as a potential area for future investment in the country.
Industry experts interpret this not merely as a friendly gesture but as a signal that NVIDIA views South Korea as a key hub for the robotics and physical AI ecosystem, extending beyond AI semiconductors.
"If South Korea wants, GTC can be held here"
GTC is the world's largest AI and semiconductor technology event hosted by NVIDIA, showcasing the latest AI chips, data centers, robotics, autonomous driving, and AI agent technology roadmaps. It is often referred to as the "WWDC of the AI industry."
If GTC is indeed held in South Korea, it would symbolize the country's recognition as a central player in NVIDIA's global AI strategy, beyond just attracting a conference.
Currently, GTC events are primarily held in the United States and Taiwan, with opportunities largely limited to countries that are key players in the AI supply chain.
"Investment in South Korea always under consideration"... Focus on robotics
Huang's remarks regarding investment drew particular attention.
When asked about NVIDIA's investment plans in South Korea, Huang replied, "Investment in South Korea is always under consideration," noting that the country has excellent infrastructure and outstanding companies. He specifically identified robotics as a promising area for collaboration.
"Robotics is a very important industry for South Korea," he said, adding that NVIDIA hopes to contribute to the development of the country's robotics sector.
He emphasized that AI and robotics could maximize the potential of the South Korean economy, especially in light of the country's declining workforce.
Next focus: 'Physical AI'
Market analysts view Huang's comments as connected to NVIDIA's emphasis on its 'Physical AI' strategy, which involves AI directly interacting with real-world machines, robots, factories, and logistics systems.
During his visit to South Korea, Huang is expected to hold a private roundtable with local robotics startups and researchers, discussing ways to expand collaboration with companies utilizing NVIDIA's robotics platform.
Potential benefits for South Korean companies?
Following Huang's remarks on robotics, South Korean robotics stocks have shown strong performance. Companies like Doosan Robotics and Robostar have experienced significant gains.
Additionally, there are expectations that NVIDIA's expanding interest in robotics could benefit South Korean firms such as LG Electronics, Hyundai Motor Group, and Naver in their AI and robotics ventures. However, this remains speculative, as no specific investment or collaboration plans have been officially announced.
Meanwhile, Huang is scheduled to meet with prominent business leaders in South Korea, including Chey Tae-won, chairman of SK Group, Koo Kwang-mo, chairman of LG Group, and Lee Hae-jin, chairman of Naver's board.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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