AMD's Lisa Su Favors Samsung Over SK hynix in Seoul Visit

AMD's apparent preference for Samsung in high-bandwidth memory (HBM) cooperation, particularly for HBM4 supplies, suggests a strategic alignment driven by AMD's need to secure memory for its Instinct MI455X AI chip. This move could be influenced by an industry official's statement that SK hynix devotes a larger share of its total HBM output to Nvidia than Samsung Electronics does.

The extended dinner meeting with Samsung's Jun Young-hyun, following a shorter encounter with SK hynix CEO Kwak Noh-jung, suggests a deepening relationship. This follows a memorandum of understanding in March where AMD selected Samsung Electronics as the preferred HBM4 supplier for its new chip. Such engagements often extend beyond immediate business, potentially solidifying long-term supply agreements.

Beyond memory, the discussions reportedly included foundry services and physical AI, areas where Samsung is developing capabilities and AMD is investing, notably through its acquisition of World Labs for $8.2 billion. This suggests AMD is seeking a more comprehensive partnership, potentially spanning chip manufacturing to advanced AI applications, rather than just a component supply arrangement.