Samsung Electronics union members hold placards with the words \u2018Abolish upper limit\u2019 during a protest outside the company’s semiconductor plant in Pyeongtaek, South Korea, 23 April 2026. The union has announced plans to launch an 18-day general strike from 21 May to 07 June, which could result in losses for the company of up to 30 trillion won (17.34 billion euros). Photo by HAN MYUNG-GU \/ EPA<\/p>\n
April 26 (Asia Today) — South Korea’s race for dominance in high-bandwidth memory, a key component for artificial intelligence chips, is diverging as SK hynix consolidates its lead while Samsung Electronics faces mounting labor tensions.<\/p>\n
Industry analysts say the competition is increasingly defined not just by technology, but by timing – with early execution and customer alignment proving decisive in securing long-term market share.\n<\/p>\n
SK hynix recently received a corporate innovation award from the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, recognizing its leadership in developing and mass-producing successive generations of HBM chips. The company has capitalized on surging demand driven by AI computing, strengthening partnerships with major global clients.<\/p>\n
SK hynix is rapidly expanding sales of its HBM3E products while simultaneously preparing for next-generation HBM4, supplying samples to key customers and advancing toward mass production. Analysts say early validation and supply relationships formed at this stage are likely to shape long-term market positioning.<\/p>\n
In contrast, Samsung is attempting to close the gap through its own HBM4 development but faces internal challenges. Labor disputes over performance-based bonuses have escalated, with unions warning of a general strike. Industry observers say the tensions could affect not only production but also research, development and customer engagement.\n<\/p>\n
HBM products require close collaboration with customers on customized designs and process validation, making speed of initial response a critical factor. Delays in testing or supply can lead to lost contracts, while early entry into supply chains often results in long-term partnerships.<\/p>\n
Analysts warn that Samsung’s internal disruptions could weaken its ability to respond during what they describe as a “golden time” in the rapidly expanding AI semiconductor market. If supply stability and development pace falter, customers may shift toward multi-vendor strategies, potentially solidifying SK hynix’s advantage.<\/p>\n
Experts also point to structural issues behind repeated labor disputes, including disagreements over performance-based compensation. They suggest moving beyond short-term negotiations toward a more transparent system based on objective metrics such as return on invested capital, total shareholder return and economic value added.<\/p>\n
Such reforms, they say, could help prevent prolonged conflicts and support the company’s competitiveness in a fast-moving global market.<\/p>\n
— Reported by Asia Today; translated by UPI<\/p>\n
\u00a9 Asia Today. Unauthorized reproduction or redistribution prohibited.<\/p>\n