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Core Viewpoint - The South Korean semiconductor industry is concerned that the ongoing Iran crisis may disrupt the supply of critical materials from the Middle East, leading to potential increases in chip prices and affecting long-term plans for AI data centers by major tech companies [1] Group 1: Impact of the Iran Crisis - The crisis could hinder the construction of AI data centers in the Middle East, which may negatively impact chip demand [1] - Key materials, such as helium, essential for semiconductor production, may be disrupted due to the Iran crisis [1][3] - The potential blockade of the Strait of Hormuz by Iran could severely affect helium supply from Qatar, which accounts for approximately 30% of global helium production [3] Group 2: Helium Supply Chain Concerns - Qatar's helium production is heavily reliant on the stability of its LNG production, with over 80% of helium output coming from specific industrial facilities [3] - If military conflicts obstruct LNG shipping routes, Qatar's helium production could be halted, leading to a global supply chain crisis [3][4] - The geopolitical risks in the Middle East could lead to a shortage and price surge of helium, impacting various industries including high-tech and medical sectors [4] Group 3: Market Reactions - Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix have seen memory chip prices rise due to competition among global tech giants building AI data centers [1] - However, incidents such as drone attacks on data centers in the UAE have raised concerns about the expansion plans of tech companies in the region [2]