Air Liquide Signs Major Contract with SK hynix to Support HBM Chip Production in Korea
On Wednesday, the French group announced the construction of a dedicated nitrogen production unit for SK hynix's HBM memory chip packaging plant in Cheongju. This long-term major contract represents the first major integration project following the acquisition of DIG Airgas earlier this year.
A €200 Million Investment to Support AI Chip Manufacturing
Air Liquide has signed a significant agreement with South Korean manufacturer SK hynix to provide very high purity carrier gas solutions for the new P&T7 packaging and testing plant. Scheduled to commence operations by the end of 2027 in Cheongju, this facility will assemble and test HBM (High-Bandwidth Memory) chips, key components for artificial intelligence applications. Air Liquide's investment involves the construction and operation of a state-of-the-art nitrogen production unit that will serve this new site. This agreement demonstrates the group's ability to rapidly capture strategic projects in the region. Ronnie Chalmers, a member of the Executive Committee overseeing operations in Asia-Pacific, described it as a 'historic partnership' that reflects the group's confidence in the South Korean economy and its commitment as a strategic partner in the global semiconductor supply chain.
DIG Airgas Synergies Immediately Create Value
The contract highlights the synergies generated by the integration of DIG Airgas, the leading provider of industrial gases in South Korea, acquired in January 2026. The merger combines Air Liquide's technological expertise in very high purity carrier gases with DIG Airgas's established local presence and solidified customer relationships. This acquisition also expanded the group's portfolio by nearly 20 secured projects. With this new unit, Air Liquide will significantly expand its presence in Cheongju, where it already operates several facilities for SK hynix, thereby strengthening its long-term competitive advantage in the South Korean market.
Three Decades of Presence in South Korea
Since 1996, Air Liquide has been established in South Korea serving major industries, the home healthcare sector, and the hydrogen economy. The group has built its presence based on strategic investments, including a molybdenum manufacturing plant and a rare gas purification unit. With nearly 1,200 employees in South Korea, the group is positioned to meet the growing demand in high-tech manufacturing, healthcare, renewable energies, and mobility.
