Samsung Electronics is targeting leadership in artificial intelligence, while SK hynix has committed to a sustained renaissance in 2025. The Korean semiconductor industry may face a talent outflow due to the US expansion of the H-1B visa program. Korean chip firms are shifting their focus from China as a result of the US probe into market flooding. In 2024, exports to Taiwan increased by 119.2% to $18.53 billion, mainly due to SK hynix's high-bandwidth memory (HBM) chips shipments to Nvidia. Samsung Electronics has also moved its production facilities in China to Vietnam, accounting for 12.9% of total chip exports. The US "America First" policy is expected to shift supply chains towards the country and urge its allies to join its trade war against China.
https://koreajoongangdaily.joins.com/news/2025-01-05/business/industry/Korean-chip-exports-to-US-Taiwan-Vietnam-increase-as-sales-to-China-drop/2215653Acting President Choi Sang-mok pledged to develop a new trade strategy and provide support for local exporting companies as the nation's interim chief, citing concerns over US President-elect Donald Trump's policies. He made this commitment during a New Year's event held by the Korea Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Seoul, where he met with major conglomerate leaders including Samsung Electronics Executive Chairman Lee Jae-yong, Hyundai Motor Group Executive Chair Euisun Chung, and LG Chairman Koo Kwang-mo. Choi vowed to create a "systematical counterstrategy" against the Trump administration's uncertain trade policies, while also prioritizing the protection of businesses from potential risks. He emphasized the need for the government to focus on fostering future industries such as AI and bio, and called for "courageous action" from both the government and businesses to navigate the challenges ahead.
https://koreajoongangdaily.joins.com/news/2025-01-03/business/industry/Acting-president-pledges-Trumpproof-trade-strategy-at-biz-lobby-dinner/2214973