SK Hynix overtakes Samsung in annual profit for the first time as AI reshapes rivalry

Core Insights - SK Hynix achieved a record operating profit of 47.2 trillion won in 2025, surpassing Samsung's 43.6 trillion won for the first time, highlighting its dominance in the high-bandwidth memory (HBM) market used in AI chips [2][3] Group 1: Company Performance - SK Hynix's operating profit of 47.2 trillion won in 2025 marks a significant milestone, as it outperformed Samsung's 43.6 trillion won [2] - The company's success is attributed to its strong position in the HBM market, which is critical for AI processors and servers [3][4] - Samsung's memory segment generated operating profits of approximately 24.9 trillion won in 2025, indicating a competitive landscape [3] Group 2: Market Position and Competition - SK Hynix is recognized as a leading "AI Winner" in Asia, maintaining its market lead in HBM and other AI-related chips [4] - Despite SK Hynix's current lead, competition is intensifying, with Samsung making strides in HBM sales and preparing to launch HBM4 products [5][6] - Analysts predict that while Samsung will improve its competitiveness with HBM4, SK Hynix is expected to retain a significant market share in this segment [6][7]