SK hynix said Friday it had launched SK hynix Ventures, a corporate venture capital brand in Silicon Valley, as the memory chipmaker expands its investment activities into artificial intelligence technologies and next-generation AI infrastructure.
The company unveiled the new brand at its inaugural “SK hynix Ventures Day” in Silicon Valley on Thursday. The event brought together global venture capital firms and startup representatives to discuss investment opportunities and technology partnerships.
The event was attended by SK hynix CEO Kwak Noh-jung, other company executives, startup representatives and investors specializing in AI computing, data centers and related technologies.
SK hynix has operated a corporate venture capital organization since 2015, investing in the semiconductor and emerging technology sectors through direct investments and fund commitments.
Active across major technology markets including the US, China, Israel and Japan, SK hynix said returns on its venture investments had exceeded twice its cumulative investment. Its activities have also helped the company identify new supply chains and customers through technology collaborations, including joint equipment development and proof-of-concept projects with portfolio companies.
With the launch of SK hynix Ventures, the company plans to expand its role beyond technology discovery and pursue broader collaboration across the AI ecosystem.
The new investment focus will cover areas including AI computing, data center infrastructure, system software and optical interconnect technologies, as SK hynix seeks opportunities in sectors expected to support AI applications.
At the event, participating startups shared views on developments in AI infrastructure, including advances in computing, memory systems, software solutions and optical technologies aimed at improving the performance and energy efficiency of AI data centers.
"Competitiveness in the AI era stems not just from rapidly securing innovative technologies, but from ecosystem capabilities where customers, partners, and startups create new value together," Kwak said.
"Through SK hynix Ventures, we will support the growth of promising companies and grow into a global partner that jointly designs the future of AI infrastructure based on strategic investments and technological cooperation."
yeeun@heraldcorp.com
