SK Hynix is exploring potential locations for its next semiconductor production facility, considering both domestic and international options following the completion of its semiconductor cluster in Yongin.
Chey Tae-won, Chairman of SK Group, spoke with reporters on June 10 after attending the Nikkei Forum in Tokyo. He stated, "Demand for semiconductors continues to rise, so we cannot avoid making preparations, which are becoming a pressing task. We need to consider follow-up production bases after the completion of the Yongin Cluster Phase 4."
Regarding the location of the next factory, Chey noted, "If it cannot be done in our country, we may have to look abroad. It is not necessarily the case that we will only build in Korea."
He emphasized that key conditions for a semiconductor plant location include infrastructure such as power, water, land, and workforce. "We need to have power, land, people, and water all in place," he stressed.
His comments indicate that the company is considering securing production bases both domestically and internationally. This comes amid recent reports that Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix are exploring new investments in semiconductor facilities in the Honam and Chungcheong regions, which has drawn attention from lawmakers.
However, both Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix stated, "We are not aware of this," and clarified that there are no definitive plans regarding local investments.
Chey also mentioned, "If customers or other countries believe they can provide us with significant benefits, we can make demands, and how we respond to those demands reflects our capabilities. There is a need to ensure at least minimal satisfaction for stakeholders," suggesting that the company is examining various options for the semiconductor plant location.
He added, "We will make decisions based on comprehensive considerations regarding where and how to build. For now, our focus is on constructing the Yongin Cluster."
Additionally, Chey expressed his agreement with Jensen Huang, CEO of NVIDIA, who recently visited Korea, on the need for increased collaboration to expand the AI ecosystem. He also emphasized that in terms of Korea-Japan economic cooperation, the two countries should enhance collaboration in semiconductors, AI, and energy sectors to become 'rule makers' in the global industrial order.
* This article has been translated by AI.
Copyright ⓒ Aju Press All rights reserved.