Korean Chaebols Reshape Portfolios Toward AI and Semiconductors

Korean large business groups, known as Chaebols, are pivoting their portfolios towards artificial intelligence and semiconductors, according to the latest data released by the Fair Trade Commission (FTC) on August 14. The number of affiliated companies belonging to these 102 business groups with assets of at least 5 trillion won has decreased from 3,538 on May 1 to 3,534 on August 3, with 49 business groups undergoing changes during the investigation period.

Hyosung led in new incorporations, adding 11 companies, followed by GS and Daemyung Chemical. On the other hand, DB experienced the highest number of exclusions, with 13 companies removed due to absorption, merger, stake sale, and liquidation closure. Major companies, such as SK, CJ, and Wonik, strategically eliminated non-core businesses that were not aligned with their core competencies.

New incorporations in both AI data centers and semiconductors were notably prominent. Samsung joined the Korea AI Computing Center and FlaktGroup Korea as affiliates, while GS incorporated GS AI Infra, and OCI added SGC Data Power and SGC AI Infra. In the manufacturing sector, Hansol acquired Will Technology, and Hyosung established HS Hyosung Energy Solution Korea, a silicon anode material manufacturing company.

Additionally, large companies are focusing on qualitative growth rather than quantitative expansion. They are clearing out affiliates operated independently by relatives or executives and adjusting the scale of their business groups after recognizing independent management. This trend reflects the companies' efforts to secure high-value technologies and strengthen their competitiveness in the next-generation energy and semiconductor markets.