The SK Group intends to develop an advanced artificial intelligence-focused data center named 'AI Factory' in Japan. This represents the initial concrete plan of the SK Group to set up a cutting-edge AI data center abroad. The company aims to partner with NVIDIA to create top-tier AI systems within Japan, and at the same time, does not exclude Japan from being considered for further chip manufacturing plants.
During an interview with Nikkei in Tokyo on the 10th, SK Group CEO Chey Tae-won mentioned, "Our intention is to build an artificial intelligence-focused data center named 'AI Factory' in Japan, aiming for completion between 2028 and 2029."
The AI Factory denotes a data center specifically designed for artificial intelligence tasks, focusing on both model training and prediction using data. It leverages SK's high-bandwidth memory (HBM) along with NVIDIA's graphic processing units (GPUs) to deliver strong computing capabilities while reducing energy usage.
Earlier, SK had unveiled plans to establish the first AI factory in South Korea in 2027, aiming to scale up to the gigawatt (GW) level, and then broaden the operations across Asia. This interview indicated that Japan will serve as the initial international site.
As reported by Nikkei, the AI data center planned for construction in Japan will involve partnerships with domestic firms. Detailed talks are currently taking place with an aim to start functioning between 2028 and 2029.
Even though the exact investment amount remains undisclosed, the plant is anticipated to possess a power generation capability at the gigawatt level, comparable to the energy needs of a large urban center. SK is presently searching for potential locations that offer sufficient area and reliable electrical supply.
Chairman Chey stated that this data center will not merely assist Japanese businesses in boosting AI-driven efficiency but will also demonstrate SK's advanced chip technology.
In the meantime, Chairman Chey mentioned that the growth of the artificial intelligence sector is intensifying discrepancies between supply and demand for memory chips, referring to the chip scarcity as "a very critical issue."
He mentioned that SK is speeding up the increase in production capabilities. At present, the company is building the world's biggest semiconductor complex in Yongin, Gyeonggi Province, aiming to finish the facility several years earlier than initially planned.
Chairman Chey also mentioned that should more expansion be required later, the firm might explore establishing manufacturing facilities abroad. On Japan, he noted, "It boasts a dense cluster of semiconductor equipment and materials firms, with all essential supporting systems available," describing it as a "highly promising location."
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