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 to reporters in Tokyo after attending the Nikkei Forum on June 10, stating, "Demand for semiconductors continues to grow, so we cannot afford to remain idle. Preparing for the future is becoming a pressing task." He emphasized the need to review subsequent production sites after the completion of the Yongin cluster's fourth phase.
Regarding the location of the next factory, Chey noted, "If it cannot be done in our country, we may have to consider overseas options. It is not a given that we will build exclusively in Korea."
He identified key factors for semiconductor plant locations as infrastructure, including power, water, land, and workforce. Chey stressed, "We need to have all the necessary resources—power, land, people, and water—available."
His comments suggest that the company is considering securing production bases both domestically and abroad. 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 have drawn attention from lawmakers.
However, both Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix stated, "We are not aware of such plans," and clarified that there are no definitive decisions regarding investments in regional areas.
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 necessity to ensure at least minimal satisfaction for stakeholders," indicating that the company is considering various factors for the semiconductor plant's location.
He added, "We will make a comprehensive decision on where and how to build, but for now, our focus is on constructing the Yongin cluster."
Additionally, Chey expressed his agreement with Jensen Huang, CEO of NVIDIA, during Huang's recent visit to South Korea, stating, "We need more collaboration to expand the AI ecosystem." He also emphasized the importance of enhancing cooperation in the semiconductor, AI, and energy sectors between Korea and Japan, aiming for both countries to become 'rule makers' in the global industrial order.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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