SK Hynix considers multi-trillion won memory chip plant in Japan

SK Hynix is considering a multi-trillion won investment to build a memory chip factory in Miyagi Prefecture, Japan. If realized, this would mark the first large-scale semiconductor manufacturing investment by a South Korean firm in Japan, following similar moves by Micron and TSMC.

While company representatives stated that no final decision has been made, they noted that any location with sufficient infrastructure remains a candidate. Reports suggest SK Group Chairman Chey Tae-won has recently visited the region, which is a designated semiconductor hub in Japan.

The potential expansion is driven by surging global demand for memory chips, particularly high-bandwidth memory (HBM) essential for artificial intelligence.

In related corporate developments, SK Hynix recently approved a 40 trillion won share buyback and cancellation plan, which boosted its stock price. Additionally, the company has reached a preliminary labor agreement for 2026, which includes a 6.3 percent base salary increase and a plan to pay 60 percent of bonuses in company stock rather than cash.