Sam Altman, the CEO of U.S.-based artificial intelligence company OpenAI, is currently in South Korea to discuss establishing a global network for artificial intelligence (AI) chip manufacturing. Altman’s visit aims to foster collaboration with key South Korean chipmakers, including Samsung Electronics and SK hynix, to make significant strides in the competitive AI chip market, currently dominated by U.S. tech giant Nvidia Corp.
Exploring semiconductor production in South Korea
During his visit, Sam Altman looked at Samsung Electronics’ semiconductor production line in Pyeongtaek, approximately 65 kilometers south of Seoul. Altman’s visit included a meeting with Kyung Kye-hyun, who leads Samsung’s chip business. This visit signifies Altman’s proactive approach to explore potential partnerships and synergies with South Korean industry leaders in the semiconductor domain.
Scheduled high-level talks
As part of his two-day visit to South Korea, Altman has scheduled talks with prominent figures in the South Korean tech industry. He is set to meet with SK hynix Inc. CEO Kwak Noh-jung and SK Group Chairman Chey Tae-won. These discussions are expected to delve into the possibilities of collaboration and technology exchange in the AI chip sector.
Altman’s second visit to South Korea
This marks Sam Altman’s second visit to South Korea, following his initial trip in June of the previous year. During his first visit, Altman engaged in discussions with Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol and held a conference with local startups, indicating his keen interest in fostering ties and exploring opportunities in the South Korean tech ecosystem.
OpenAI’s ambitious move
Sam Altman’s recent endeavors have garnered significant attention as he seeks to establish a fresh partnership to challenge Nvidia Corp.’s predominant position in the AI chip market. Nvidia has been a dominant force in the industry, and Altman’s efforts represent an ambitious move to disrupt the existing landscape.
South Korean Chipmakers’ strengths
South Korean tech giants Samsung Electronics and SK hynix, stand out as key players in the global AI chip market. They specialize in producing premium high bandwidth memory (HBM) chips, specifically tailored for AI processors. Together, they command a market share of more than 90 percent in the global HBM market. SK hynix, in particular, is a supplier of fourth-generation HBM3 chips to Nvidia and is gearing up for mass production of fifth-generation HBM3E chips.
As the world’s largest memory chip manufacturer, Samsung Electronics possesses a comprehensive portfolio encompassing both memory chip production and foundry services, commonly referred to as contract manufacturing. This dual capability positions them favorably for potential collaborations in the AI chip domain.
Sam Altman’s visit to South Korea signals his commitment to exploring strategic partnerships and collaboration opportunities in the AI chip manufacturing sector. The presence of South Korean industry giants Samsung Electronics and SK hynix, with their dominance in the HBM chip market, provides a promising avenue for potential synergy and innovation. As discussions progress, the tech world watches with anticipation to see how these partnerships may reshape the competitive landscape of the AI chip industry. Altman’s proactive approach reflects the growing importance of AI technology in the global tech ecosystem and highlights South Korea’s pivotal role in its advancement.
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