How Did SK hynix's Bold Investments Lead to HBM Success?
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Synopsis
Discover how SK hynix Inc., South Korea's second-largest chipmaker, leveraged bold investments from SK Group to dominate the high bandwidth memory market. CEO Kwak Noh-jung reveals insights on overcoming challenges and embracing innovation in the evolving tech landscape.
Key Takeaways
- SK Group's investments have propelled SK hynix to the forefront of the HBM market.
- The SUPEX management philosophy fosters continuous innovation.
- SK hynix was once on the brink of collapse but has since emerged as a leader.
- The company is preparing to tackle challenges in the AI era.
- Strengthening economic ties with Japan is a current focus for South Korea.
Seoul, Aug 18 (NationPress) The leader of SK hynix Inc., the second-largest chip manufacturer in South Korea, stated on Monday that the bold investments and vision of SK Group have positioned the company at the forefront of the high bandwidth memory (HBM) sector.
Kwak Noh-jung, the CEO of SK hynix, shared these insights during an annual business forum for the conglomerate held in Icheon, located approximately 50 kilometers southeast of Seoul. He emphasized the importance of the group's Super Excellent Level (SUPEX) management philosophy, according to reports from Yonhap news agency.
"The firm, which once faced imminent collapse, was able to innovate the world's first HBM and dominate the international DRAM market, all thanks to SK Group," Kwak remarked.
SK Group acquired the chipmaker, previously known as Hynix Semiconductor Inc., in 2012, and the company rolled out the world's inaugural HBM the following year.
"We are also apprehensive about the significant changes on the horizon as we enter the artificial intelligence era," Kwak acknowledged, asserting that SK hynix will meet these new challenges head-on.
Kwak further stated that the company will persist in its relentless innovation, guided by the SUPEX philosophy.
Meanwhile, SK Group Chairman Chey Tae-won and about 250 representatives from the group's affiliates attended the opening ceremony of the three-day forum. On Wednesday, Chey is expected to deliver a speech outlining the group's future business vision.
In a related development, the trade minister convened with the Japanese ambassador to South Korea to discuss strategies for enhancing economic ties between the two nations amid rising global trade uncertainties, officials reported.
Trade Minister Yeo Han-koo met with Ambassador Koichi Mizushima in Seoul earlier today, as President Lee Jae Myung prepares for his upcoming visit to Japan for his inaugural summit talks with Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba this Saturday.
Yeo underscored the importance of reinforcing practical economic collaboration between South Korea and Japan, marking 60 years since the normalization of diplomatic relations.
Point of View
It is crucial to recognize that SK hynix's journey illustrates the importance of strategic investment and innovation in the tech industry. The company's resilience and adaptability in the face of challenges underscore its role as a leader in high bandwidth memory technology.
NationPress
08/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is SK hynix known for?
SK hynix is recognized as South Korea's second-largest chipmaker, specializing in memory chips including high bandwidth memory (HBM) and dynamic random-access memory (DRAM).
How did SK Group impact SK hynix?
SK Group's bold investments and visionary management have played a pivotal role in transforming SK hynix, helping it emerge as a leader in the global semiconductor market.
What is the significance of the SUPEX philosophy?
The SUPEX philosophy emphasizes excellence and innovation, guiding SK hynix in its quest for continuous improvement and leadership in the technology sector.
What challenges does SK hynix face in the AI era?
As the artificial intelligence era unfolds, SK hynix acknowledges the substantial changes ahead and is committed to addressing the challenges posed by evolving technology.
What recent discussions have taken place between South Korea and Japan?
The trade minister of South Korea recently met with the Japanese ambassador to strengthen economic ties between the two countries amid global trade uncertainties.
