A clearer view of what matters

A possible leadership change at Nvidia is an important variable for Korea’s semiconductor and AI industries as well. With GPU procurement and corporate cooperation already underway, many are watching closely to see whether a shift in management could affect existing plans. Deputy Prime Minister and Science and ICT Minister Bae Kyung-hoon said he expects little disruption to cooperation between Korea and Nvidia.

After the National Assembly’s Science, ICT, Broadcasting and Communications Committee plenary session ended on the 13th, Deputy Prime Minister Bae spoke with reporters and answered questions about how CEO Jensen Huang’s resignation might affect cooperation. He said that since multiple discussions are already taking place between Nvidia and domestic semiconductor and AI companies, he believes the partnership will continue even if there is a change in leadership. He also expressed hope that Nvidia will continue to regard Korea as an important partner.

What Happens to GPU Procurement and Existing Projects?

Deputy Prime Minister Bae also explained that once the situation at Nvidia’s headquarters becomes clearer, he plans to meet and discuss matters directly. The idea is to communicate quickly so that GPU-related projects and AI cooperation initiatives can proceed without disruption, and to move them forward according to the existing plan. He added that if a new CEO is appointed, he intends to arrange a meeting.

GPUs are devices that handle the computations needed to train and run AI models. For that reason, discussions around GPU supply can be a major issue for companies and institutions preparing AI businesses. However, in this statement, no specific supply volume or timeline was disclosed.

Continued Cooperation Is Expected, but Follow-Up Talks Will Matter

Deputy Prime Minister Bae referred to Apple’s transition from Steve Jobs to Tim Cook, saying that Nvidia could also be led by a capable successor. He also said the semiconductor market is once again showing an upward trend, and that Nvidia will likely reorganize itself once the situation becomes clearer.

That said, the idea that cooperation with Korea will continue as planned is still based on Bae’s current outlook and intent. The actual progress of the business will likely depend on consultations with Nvidia’s headquarters and on the company’s future leadership structure. The key point of his remarks is the government’s stance that it will continue the existing GPU and AI cooperation plans without being shaken by a leadership change. (Source: Segye Ilbo)