OpenAI CEO Sam Altman Explores Global AI Network With South Korean Chip Leaders
Sam Altman, the CEO of OpenAI, a renowned US artificial intelligence company, recently visited South Korea to discuss the establishment of a global network for AI chip manufacturing. During his stay, Altman engaged with key chipmakers in the country, aiming to create strategic partnerships in the highly competitive AI chip market.
Altman’s visit included a tour of Samsung Electronics Co.’s semiconductor production line in Pyeongtaek, where he had the opportunity to witness the advanced manufacturing capabilities of the renowned Korean company. Furthermore, he held discussions with Kyung Kye-hyun, the head of Samsung’s chip business, to explore potential collaboration opportunities.
The OpenAI CEO’s packed itinerary also consisted of scheduled meetings with SK hynix Inc. CEO Kwak Noh-jung and SK Group Chairman Chey Tae-won. This demonstrates Altman’s commitment to engaging with the top players in the South Korean tech industry and solidifying partnerships that can shape the future of AI chip manufacturing.
This marks Altman’s second visit to South Korea, following his initial trip in June last year, during which he met with Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol and participated in a conference with local startups. This time, however, Altman aims to make significant strides in establishing a network that can disrupt the AI chip market, predominantly controlled by US tech giant Nvidia Corp.
Samsung Electronics and SK hynix are among the select few companies globally that specialize in manufacturing premium high bandwidth memory (HBM) chips uniquely tailored for AI processors. Together, these Korean chipmakers hold a substantial market share of over 90% in the global HBM market.
SK hynix has already been supplying Nvidia with the fourth-generation HBM3 chips and is preparing for mass production of the fifth-generation HBM3E. Meanwhile, Samsung Electronics, the world’s leading memory chipmaker, possesses a competitive edge with its memory chip and foundry businesses.
Altman’s strategic engagement with South Korean chipmakers underscores the importance of fostering partnerships to challenge Nvidia’s dominance in the AI chip market. By collaborating with industry leaders who possess advanced technology and extensive market share, OpenAI aims to create a more balanced and competitive landscape in this rapidly evolving sector.
As Altman explores the potential of a global AI chip manufacturing network, the industry eagerly awaits the outcomes of his discussions with South Korean chipmakers. The establishment of strategic alliances and the exchange of technological expertise between OpenAI and these companies could shape the future of AI chip innovation, further propelling the advancement of artificial intelligence worldwide.
