SK Hynix reportedly begins construction of memory chip plant in Japan

SK Hynix has reportedly begun construction of a memory chip plant in Japan, according to South Korean media outlet SME Daily. The report said the company had started foundation work for a semiconductor factory in northeastern Japan, even though it had said just one month earlier that no specific decision had been made. People familiar with the industry told the outlet that groundwork is already underway at the site. One industry source said it remains unclear whether the factory is being built solely by SK Hynix or as a joint venture with Kioxia. Still, the source said the start of foundation work indicates SK Hynix’s intention to enter the Japanese market. The same source also said SK Hynix recently asked domestic South Korean parts suppliers to increase shipments, a move described as part of the company’s response to tight memory chip supply.