Samsung and SK Hynix race to pre‑order EUV lithography tools amid ASML supply crunch
Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix are each placing pre‑orders for extreme ultraviolet (EUV) lithography equipment worth between 10 trillion and 20 trillion won. SK Hynix disclosed an 11.95 trillion‑won contract with a delivery deadline of 31 December 2027, while Samsung’s orders are tied to its 450 trillion‑won, five‑year Pyeongtaek campus investment that requires more than 60 trillion won per fab. ASML has confirmed that its 2027‑2028 EUV supply will fall short of demand, with shipments this year expected to rise to about 65 units, up roughly 50 % from 44 units last year.
Why it matters
Securing EUV tool slots will determine each company’s ability to expand advanced DRAM capacity and capture market share as AI‑driven memory demand grows. The shortage also implies higher tool prices from 2028, affecting capital‑expenditure budgets.
Key facts
- 1Both Samsung and SK Hynix have placed EUV equipment orders worth 10 trillion to 20 trillion won each. biz.chosun.com
- 2SK Hynix disclosed an EUV purchase contract of about 11.95 trillion won, with delivery due by 31 December 2027. biz.chosun.com
- 3Samsung announced a five‑year domestic investment plan of 450 trillion won, including the Pyeongtaek campus Line 5 (P5). finance.biggo.com
- 4The P5 fab is expected to require more than 60 trillion won per fab. finance.biggo.com
- 5ASML expects EUV shipments this year to be about 65 units, up nearly 50 % from 44 units last year. biz.chosun.com
- 6ASML indicated its planned EUV supply for 2027‑2028 will not meet customer demand. finance.biggo.com
Summary written by AlphAI AI Desk from 2 of 2 sources. Not investment advice. Figures are as stated by the linked sources.