Reuters: SK hynix in Talks with Intel on Producing Memory Chips in the U.S.

SK hynix: "Nothing Has Been Finalized"

Reports have emerged that SK hynix is engaged in multiple negotiations with Intel regarding its first-ever production of memory semiconductors in the United States.

According to multiple sources cited by Reuters on September 16 (local time), SK hynix is considering, as a leading option, leasing part of the semiconductor complex currently being constructed by Intel in Ohio to manufacture memory chips.

It has also been reported that SK hynix is exploring the possibility of forming a joint venture (JV) with Intel and major cloud companies.

SK hynix semiconductor fab construction site in West Lafayette, Indiana, USA. Photo by Yonhap News Agency

Foreign media have commented that if a deal is reached, the completion of the plant would be pushed back to after 2030, easing the financial burden on Intel, which has been struggling with fiscal difficulties. At the same time, the Trump Administration—which has strongly called for investment in the U.S.—would be able to count this as a political achievement.

A source noted, “These talks are still in the exploratory stage, and nothing has been decided. SK hynix could also consider alternative approaches to the deal structure.”

SK hynix likewise stated, “We are reviewing various options to strengthen our competitiveness, but nothing has been confirmed.”

Foreign media expect that there will be significant hurdles to overcome before an agreement is reached, including approval procedures by the Korean government. If advanced semiconductor technologies such as high bandwidth memory (HBM) or the latest DRAM are transferred to the U.S., these could be designated as "national core technologies" under the Industrial Technology Protection Act, making them subject to strict government review. There is also a possibility of conflict with the government’s plan to foster a semiconductor cluster in the southwestern region of South Korea.

The Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy has reportedly maintained a principled stance, stating that while corporate decisions on such matters are autonomous, the government will conduct reviews according to whether the technologies in question are classified as national core technologies.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.