NVIDIA CEO Jensen Huang Calls Korea Ideal AI Hub and Expands Samsung Partnership

Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang designated South Korea as a prime destination for AI investment during a reception at the Shilla Hotel on the 8th. Huang highlighted Korea’s unique fusion of software and manufacturing prowess, while Samsung Electronics signaled an expanded partnership covering both memory and foundry services to strengthen the AI ecosystem.

Why did Jensen Huang target South Korea for AI investment?

Huang identified three specific pillars—industrial, geopolitical, and cultural—that make Korea a strategic partner. He noted that few nations possess simultaneous strength in both AI software and manufacturing.

According to Huang, the integration of electronics, software, and AI into robotics is where Korea holds a world-leading position. This creates a “win-win” scenario where Nvidia expands its software ecosystem while Korean firms boost manufacturing competitiveness.

Geopolitically, Huang described Korea as being friendly with almost all nations. He also pointed to the global reach of K-pop and beauty products as evidence that Korean culture is widely accepted worldwide.

Did You Know? Jensen Huang specifically noted that Korea is one of the only countries in the world that excels in both the software and hardware sectors of the AI industry.

How is Samsung Electronics shifting its strategy with Nvidia?

Samsung Electronics Vice President Jun Young-hyun confirmed a broadening partnership that moves beyond standard memory. The company is focusing on the immediate supply of HBM4 and “so-cam” starting this year.

Jensen Huang Announces South Korean AI Partnerships, NVDA Options Trade

Looking further ahead, Jun and Huang discussed long-term cooperation for HBM4E and HBM5. Samsung recently shipped HBM4E samples for the first time globally, marking a shift from last year when it trailed competitors like SK Hynix in the HBM3E market.

The collaboration also extends to the foundry sector. Samsung is currently working with Nvidia on 4nm and 8nm processes for autonomous driving chips and Grok inference chips, with discussions underway for next-generation cooperation.

Expert Insight: Samantha Carter suggests that Samsung’s move to prioritize HBM4E samples represents a tactical pivot to regain technical leadership. By diversifying the partnership into foundry services for autonomous driving, Samsung is likely attempting to reduce its reliance on a single product line and deepen its integration into Nvidia’s hardware roadmap.

What happens next for Korea’s AI hardware supply?

Korea is positioned to receive priority access to Nvidia’s next-generation hardware. Vice Minister Bae Kyung-hoon stated that Korea will be among the first to receive the “Vera Rubin” GPU.

This priority supply may ensure that Korean AI ventures have the necessary computing power for future projects. Further support for GPU procurement is expected to prevent disruptions in upcoming business operations.

Depending on the success of the 4nm and 8nm collaborations, Samsung and Nvidia could potentially expand their foundry partnership into even smaller process nodes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What specific strengths did Jensen Huang see in South Korea?
Huang cited Korea’s world-class capabilities in manufacturing, heavy industry, electronics, and software, stating these fields must converge through robotics.

Which specific memory products are Samsung and Nvidia collaborating on?
The partnership covers the supply of HBM4 this year, with long-term plans extending to HBM4E and HBM5.

What is the “Vera Rubin” and why is it significant?
Vera Rubin is Nvidia’s next-generation GPU, and Korea has been granted priority supply to support its AI business initiatives.

Do you think the fusion of K-culture and AI hardware will give South Korea a lasting edge in the global tech race?