OpenAI’s Stargate 900k DRAM wafers could hit 40% of global output — led by Samsung and SK hynix

According to Tom’s Hardware, citing Reuters, Samsung and SK hynix have reached preliminary agreements to supply memory for OpenAI’s massive Stargate data center project. OpenAI’s projected demand could climb to 900,000 DRAM wafers per month—a staggering figure that may represent as much as 40% of total global DRAM output, the report notes.

South Korean outlet MK notes that much of this demand is expected to be for high-value HBM. Industry sources cited in the report explain that 900,000 wafers a month would equal SK hynix’s entire quarterly HBM revenue, though the actual impact will depend on how long OpenAI continues such orders. MK also adds that SK hynix’s current HBM capacity is about 160,000 wafers per month.

The JoongAng likewise highlights that OpenAI’s estimate of 900,000 DRAM wafers per month for Stargate would be more than double the current global HBM production capacity.

In addition, MK, citing industry sources, reports that meeting HBM demand on this scale may require both Samsung and SK hynix to adjust their DRAM production mix. Such adjustments could tighten supply of mainstream DRAM, lifting prices and prolonging the current uptrend in the memory market.

From memory to data centers: Samsung’s partnership with OpenAI
Samsung is expected to provide not only HBM but also graphics DRAM (GDDR), high-capacity SSDs, and low-power DRAM with in-memory computing (LPDDR5X-PIM) for AI applications. MK highlights that customized HBM and next-generation 256TB-class SSDs are considered particularly well-suited for the mega-scale data centers OpenAI plans to operate.

As noted by The Korea Economic Daily, Samsung’s role will extend beyond memory. Samsung SDS will take part in data center design and operations, while Samsung C&T and Samsung Heavy Industries plan to develop floating offshore data centers. Meanwhile, SK Telecom will work with OpenAI on a domestic initiative branded “Stargate Korea.”

SK hynix gears up to meet Stargate’s DRAM demand
Meanwhile, MK reports that SK hynix is expected to handle a significant share of OpenAI’s requirement for 900,000 wafers of high-performance DRAM per month, given its production capacity. The report further notes that the company is bolstering its position with new fabs: the Cheongju M15X plant is scheduled for completion by the end of this year, while Phase 1 of the Yongin Semiconductor Cluster remains on track for May 2027.

Source: TrendForce, Taiwan.