Overview
- Reports say Samsung and SK Hynix are placing very large orders for ASML extreme ultraviolet (EUV) lithography systems, with industry estimates putting each company’s investment in the 10–20 trillion Korean won range.
- SK Hynix has confirmed a procurement program totaling about 11.95 trillion won for EUV tools for delivery in 2026–2027 tied to its Yongin Y1 fab, which is slated to bring its first cleanroom online in early 2027.
- Samsung plans to introduce new equipment at its P5 site in mid-2027 and has committed to using High-NA EUV for DRAM mass production targeted for 2028.
- Smaller player Winbond is preparing to adopt EUV for a second‑generation 14nm-class DRAM process around 2030, has approved a NT$71.363 billion Kaohsiung Module B budget for civil works and long‑lead items, and is sending staff to ASML for multi‑year training as ASML delivery lead times run about two years for a first unit and roughly 3.5 years for follow-on machines.
- The long ASML delivery queues explain the rush to order now but create risk: cloud service provider capital plans could tighten by 2029 and change demand, while the tool buildup will drive multi‑year factory hiring, construction and local supplier activity.