South Korea Seeks to Shield Samsung, SK Hynix from U.S. Tariffs Amid Chip Trade Tensions
South Korean officials are preparing for direct negotiations with the U.S. government to protect Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix from potential tariffs on advanced semiconductors. A presidential spokesperson confirmed the push for favorable terms, citing a 2023 joint agreement that guaranteed no worse treatment than other chipmaking nations.
The immediate focus remains on high-end AI chips from companies like Nvidia and AMD, which face new duties under the Trump administration's order. Trade Minister Yeo Han-koo noted memory chips—South Korea's primary export—remain unaffected for now, but warned against complacency given the unpredictable scope of future tariff phases.