SK hynix launches venture capital brand to build AI ecosystem

SK hynix has officially launched its corporate venture capital arm, SK hynix Ventures, in the United States.

The new unit will identify promising companies globally in advanced technology sectors, including AI computing, data centers, system software and optical communications.

SK hynix President and CEO Kwak Noh-jung traveled to Silicon Valley on Thursday (local time) to host the inaugural SK hynix Ventures Day, saying "competitiveness in the AI era comes from the ecosystem's ability to create new value together — with customers, partners and startups."

Kwak went on to say that through SK hynix Ventures, the company would "support the growth of promising companies and evolve into a global partner that shapes the future of AI infrastructure through strategic investment and technology collaboration."

The event drew promising startups in AI computing and data center technology, who shared their visions for future innovation. Participants also discussed performance and power efficiency in optical-based systems for AI data centers.

SK hynix executives exchanged investment strategies with global venture capital firms and startup representatives, and explored avenues for future technology collaboration to keep pace with shifts in the AI industry.

SK hynix has operated a corporate venture capital unit since 2015, making direct and indirect investments in early-stage startups in semiconductors and emerging technologies. Its cumulative investment returns across key markets — including the United States, China, Israel and Japan — have exceeded twice the total amount invested.

While the existing unit focused on tracking future technology trends and identifying new business opportunities, SK hynix plans to significantly expand its CVC operations with the formal launch of SK hynix Ventures. The company said it aims to go beyond scouting promising companies and take a leading role in driving collaboration across the broader ecosystem.