South Korean chipmakers secure helium stocks until June
South Korean chipmakers have enough helium to last until June despite supply issues in Qatar. The industry minister expects no disruptions in the first half.
South Korea currently maintains sufficient helium reserves to support its semiconductor industry through at least June, according to government and industry sources. This assessment comes as officials seek to ease concerns regarding potential supply chain disruptions linked to the conflict involving Iran. Helium, a critical byproduct of natural gas processing, has seen sharp price increases after regional instability disrupted operations in Qatar, which is the second-largest supplier globally.
Industry Minister Kim Jung-kwan recently informed the cabinet that major supply interruptions are unlikely during the first half of the year. Major manufacturers, including Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. and SK hynix Inc., are estimated to hold between four and six months of inventory. These companies, which together supply approximately two-thirds of the world's memory chips, have been proactively securing stocks to mitigate potential shortages.
