As reported by China Fund News, which cited South Korean media sources, on January 19, 2026, SK Hynix, one of the three global powerhouses in the memory - chip sector, made a groundbreaking announcement. The company revealed that it would award a performance bonus exceeding 136 million won (roughly equivalent to 640,000 RMB) to each of its 33,000 employees. This move sets a new benchmark as it represents the highest bonus amount in the company's entire history.

In a significant shift from its previous policy, SK Hynix has abolished the former cap that limited the bonus to 10 months' basic salary. Instead, the new bonus structure is based on 10% of the previous year's operating profit. To ensure a balanced approach, 80% of the bonus will be disbursed in the current year. The remaining 20% will be deferred and paid out over a two - year period, with an annual interest rate of 10% accruing on the deferred amount.

Moreover, SK Hynix has introduced an enticing 'Shareholder Participation Plan' for its employees. Under this plan, employees have the option to convert up to 50% of their annual bonus into company shares. As an added incentive, if they hold onto these shares for a full year, they will receive an extra 15% cash reward.