On July 30, data released by Samsung Electronics' semiconductor division revealed a staggering profit surge, exceeding 250-fold, largely attributed to the high-margin returns generated by AI's heavy reliance on memory chips. The division's operating profit for the second quarter soared to KRW 89.2 trillion (approximately USD 62 billion), comfortably surpassing analysts' projections of KRW 79.3 trillion. Meanwhile, the group's consolidated net profit reached KRW 71.3 trillion, also outpacing market forecasts. As the global leader in memory chip manufacturing, Samsung's profitability has garnered considerable attention, with investors eager for concrete evidence to substantiate the massive investments and lofty valuations fueled by the AI boom. Despite global semiconductor stocks reaching record highs this year, concerns have mounted over escalating competition and the looming threat of overcapacity, prompting investors to increasingly scrutinize the commercial viability of these substantial investments.
