SK Hynix eyes first Japan memory fab in Miyagi to tap semiconductor supply chain

SK Hynix is pursuing its first memory fab investment in Japan by a Korean semiconductor company, aiming to strengthen ties with Japan's materials, parts, and equipment ecosystem and secure government subsidies. The company has reportedly selected Miyagi Prefecture in northeastern Japan as the site, though it officially stated no decision has been made. The region hosts Tokyo Electron's core production base and Tohoku University's semiconductor talent pipeline. Japan's 2022 economic security law allows export controls on semiconductor manufacturing equipment, which local production could help mitigate. SK Group Chairman Chey Tae-won previously praised Japan's semiconductor ecosystem as a viable investment destination.