Summary of the Conference Call on South Korea's AI Infrastructure Opportunity Industry Overview - The focus is on the emerging AI infrastructure opportunity in South Korea, particularly the construction of AI data centers supported by favorable government policies [1][3]. - The report highlights significant market opportunities as the first wave of AI data centers begins construction [1]. Key Companies Mentioned - **Samsung SDS**: Identified as a key player in AI infrastructure with ongoing AI data center projects [4]. - **HD Hyundai Electric**: Another preferred stock pick due to its involvement in the AI infrastructure build-out [1][5]. - **SK Telecom**: Actively involved in AI data center projects and partnerships with global AI companies [4][12]. Core Insights and Arguments - **Demand for AI Services**: The proliferation of AI-powered services is driving strong demand for GPU-based data centers in Korea, necessitating upgrades to supporting infrastructure [2][11]. - **Government Support**: The Lee administration is promoting data center construction through tax incentives and policy support, aiming to position Korea as an "Asia AI hub" [3][21]. - **Rural Development**: The government is focusing on economic growth in rural areas by decentralizing power and promoting AI data center build-outs outside the Seoul metropolitan area [24][26]. - **Investment in Infrastructure**: The government plans to invest W100 trillion in AI infrastructure, including the development of an "AI Superhighway" to support next-generation AI [22][21]. Data Center Developments - Multiple AI-specific data center announcements have been made, with significant projects underway, including those by SK Telecom and Samsung SDS [12][14]. - The National AI Computing Center project, led by Samsung SDS, aims to house 15,000 GPUs and is backed by government funding [23]. Supporting Infrastructure - Companies involved in power generation and grid modernization, such as KEPCO, LG ES, and Doosan Enerbility, are expected to benefit from the demand for energy storage systems and grid upgrades [5][13]. - The upcoming Energy Highway project aims to enhance the national grid's capacity to support rising power demand from AI data centers [30][34]. Economic and Environmental Impact - The energy highway is expected to facilitate the transfer of up to 20 GW of renewable energy to major demand centers, improving grid reliability and supporting Korea's carbon neutrality goals by 2050 [73][80]. - The project is anticipated to create jobs and economic opportunities in rural areas, helping to decentralize economic activity from Seoul [79]. Conclusion - The combination of government support, increasing demand for AI services, and the development of robust infrastructure positions South Korea as a potential leader in AI technology and data center operations [1][21].