Seoul denies talks on chips as primary US investment priority

South Korea's government has rejected claims that it held discussions with US officials regarding semiconductor investments as a cornerstone project, according to officials in Seoul. The statement addresses recent reports suggesting uncertainty around a potential Korean chip-making facility in America following Washington's push for substantial foreign investment in domestic memory-chip manufacturing.

The reported initiative reflects broader US efforts to bolster its semiconductor production capacity and reduce reliance on Asian supply chains. Several major Asian chipmakers, including South Korean firms, have faced pressure from US policymakers to consider expanding operations stateside.

Korean officials have not provided further details on the nature or scope of any discussions with Washington regarding semiconductor investments. The government's denial appears aimed at clarifying that no formal agreement or prioritized commitment has been established regarding chip manufacturing as a primary investment focus in the United States.

The development underscores ongoing tensions between securing critical semiconductor supply chains and managing corporate investment priorities across major technology-producing nations in the region.