OpenAI and South Korea Forge AI and Semiconductor Partnership

In a significant move to bolster artificial intelligence and semiconductor collaboration, OpenAI CEO Sam Altman met with South Korean President Lee Jae-myung. The meeting, held at the Presidential Office in Seoul, focused on expanding cooperation between OpenAI and South Korean corporations, particularly Samsung Electronics and SK Group.

OpenAI has signed a letter of intent with Samsung and SK to supply memory semiconductors for its large-scale AI infrastructure project, known as the Stargate project. This collaboration aims to secure an early demand source for South Korea's semiconductor industry, providing a growth opportunity for domestic suppliers.

Additionally, OpenAI and the South Korean Ministry of Science and ICT signed a memorandum of understanding to support the country's AI ecosystem. This agreement includes plans to develop two new data centers in South Korea, with Samsung and SK hynix playing key roles in their construction and operation. These efforts align with South Korea's ambition to become an AI hub in the Asia-Pacific region.

The partnership is expected to accelerate South Korea's AI infrastructure development, enhance regional economies, and foster AI talent and startups. The collaboration also aims to expand domestic exports and create jobs, with Samsung and SK positioned as pivotal players in the global AI market alongside OpenAI.