SK Hynix and Samsung gained from soaring demand for high-bandwidth memory after OpenAI launched its $500bn Stargate project.
Shares of SK Hynix rose 10%, while Samsung Electronics gained over 3% in Seoul trading after the announcement.
Both firms secured contracts to supply high-bandwidth memory for the massive AI supercomputer initiative.
Samsung, the world’s largest memory chipmaker, dominates DRAM and NAND flash, crucial for servers and devices worldwide.
SK Hynix ranks second in DRAM and leads in high-bandwidth memory, essential for Nvidia’s AI processors.
Together, the firms control over half the global memory market, shaping pricing, production, and technological progress.
Expanding High-Bandwidth Memory for AI Growth
High-bandwidth memory drives AI by enabling Nvidia’s processors to move data at extremely fast speeds.
AI models require vast computing power, which standard memory cannot deliver at scale.
The Stargate project will deploy a global network of AI supercomputers requiring massive HBM volumes monthly.
Analysts expect demand for hundreds of thousands of HBM wafers every month from Stargate facilities worldwide.
Such demand will reshape global semiconductor supply, reinforcing SK Hynix’s dominance in HBM3 chips.
It will also strengthen Samsung’s expansion into next-generation HBM4, securing its competitive position.
South Korea Rises as Strategic AI Partner
OpenAI’s plan carries strategic weight for South Korea beyond boosting hardware manufacturing strength.
Hosting one of the largest AI infrastructure projects elevates Seoul’s position as a global technology hub.
The project deepens ties with the US while reducing reliance on China-sensitive supply chains in AI technology.
Washington continues steering critical tech investment toward allies, securing infrastructure in politically stable regions.
South Korea’s export-driven chip sector offers both massive scale and alignment with US strategic goals.
By anchoring Stargate, Seoul gains influence in the global AI race while solidifying its technology leadership.
