Speaking shortly after arriving at Gimpo International Airport from Taiwan on his second visit in seven months, Huang pointed to South Korea’s manufacturing strength as the foundation for what he described as a new wave of “physical AI” innovation.
“Because Korea is a manufacturing centre of the world, we can apply the robotics technology, the physical AI technology that we invent here for the industry,” he told reporters upon arrival.
Manufacturing strength seen as foundation for “physical AI”
South Korea already plays a dominant role in global manufacturing, with major output in semiconductors, consumer electronics, automobiles, and shipbuilding. Huang said this ecosystem positions the country to move quickly into AI-driven robotics and automated production systems.
“The manufacturing of semiconductors will become increasingly robotics and increasingly AI-driven in the future, and so we have a great opportunity to partner with the semiconductor companies here as well,” he said.
He confirmed scheduled meetings with major industry players including Samsung Electronics, SK hynix, LG Corporation, Hyundai Motor Group, and Naver Corporation, signalling a broad push into AI infrastructure and robotics integration.
“I brought a lot of business for Korea”
Huang struck an upbeat tone about Nvidia’s engagement in the country, hinting at upcoming deals and partnerships.
“Did I bring any gifts for Korea? I brought a lot of business for Korea,” he said, adding: “I have some surprises.”
He also reiterated Korea’s industrial edge, particularly in combining manufacturing expertise with AI development.
“Korea is extraordinary at manufacturing, mechatronics, and also artificial intelligence,” he said. “The fusion of all of that technology is perfect robotics.”
Cultural stopovers and high-level industry meetings
Beyond business discussions, Huang’s visit has also included high-profile cultural and networking moments. He visited an internet café in Seoul and met e-sports figures, including gaming star Lee Sang-hyeok. His daughter, Madison Huang, joined him during the visit and wore a uniform of the T1 e-sports team.
Later in the trip, he is expected to attend a private dinner featuring top Korean business leaders, including chairpersons and founders from major conglomerates, reflecting Nvidia’s growing ties with the country’s corporate elite.
Huang also revealed that Nvidia has begun hiring for a research and development centre in South Korea, with expansion plans dependent on staffing levels.
“As soon as we have enough people here, then we'll build a site,” he said.
Robotics, memory chips, and AI supply chain alignment
A key theme of Huang’s visit is ensuring tighter alignment across the semiconductor supply chain, particularly in memory chips essential for AI systems.
South Korea’s dominance in high-bandwidth memory (HBM) and DRAM production—led by companies like SK hynix and Samsung Electronics—positions it as a critical partner for Nvidia’s AI chip ecosystem.
Huang stressed the importance of coordination across suppliers as demand for AI hardware accelerates globally.
Baseball, media appearances, and soft diplomacy
The Nvidia chief is also expected to throw the ceremonial first pitch at a baseball game and appear on a local television talk show, continuing his blend of tech diplomacy and cultural engagement.
He summed up the visit in characteristic style: “I love Korean barbecue. I love Korean fried chicken.”