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South Korea Weighs US Tariff Effects on AI Chips
15 Jan
Summary
- South Korea will monitor U.S. tariff developments on AI chips.
- A 25% U.S. tariff on certain AI semiconductor chips was announced.
- Broader U.S. semiconductor tariffs could create industry uncertainty.
South Korea's Industry Minister Kim Jung-kwan announced on Thursday, January 15, 2026, that the government will closely observe developments regarding U.S. tariffs on specific AI semiconductor chips. This monitoring aims to minimize any adverse effects on domestic industries. The Ministry of Industry held a meeting with key South Korean semiconductor firms to strategize responses to the 25% tariff unveiled by the White House on Wednesday, January 14, 2026.
Industry officials indicated that the immediate impact on Korean companies might be limited. They noted that the tariffs do not extend to chips intended for U.S. data centers and startups. This exclusion suggests that the current measures will not significantly disrupt their operations, providing a measure of relief for the sector.
However, a White House fact sheet has raised concerns. It suggests that President Donald Trump might implement more extensive tariffs on imported semiconductors and their related products. This potential move is intended to boost domestic manufacturing, but it introduces considerable uncertainty for the global semiconductor industry, prompting continued vigilance from South Korean officials and companies.
